Shattered Dreams

Directed by Wendy Hill-Tout for The National Film Board of Canada

• "This affecting presentation valuably depicts the tragedy of schizophrenia from the family's perspective." Booklist

Shattered Dreams recounts the emotional journey of a family forced to deal with the tragedy of schizophrenia - not once but twice. The Martini family lived through the turmoil of losing their youngest son, Ben, to schizophrenia and eventually to suicide. Six years later they discovered that their second son also had developed the same mental illness.

Clem Martini is the third brother in the family. He narrates the film, sharing with us his family's distress and guilt. He explains how lack of information about schizophrenia left the family ill-prepared to deal with Ben when he was released from the hospital. Having lived through one trauma they are now in a better position to help the second son salvage his life.

An important film for all who work with the mentally ill.

Association for Women in Psychology, 1994
American Film & Video Festival, 1991
Booklist, Editor's Choice, 1991

28 min. Video or DVD. Sale $250. Video rental $55.