Re: Info on the film My Brother

[Guest guest]

I didn't see the movie but, when it was first released, viewed clips from the web site (not sure if they're still there). I will tell you that I found the film far more degrading for than it was inspirational -- they show , who is nonverbal, in his underwear doing "yoga", and doing his own "signs" (they didn't bother to teach him ASL) for his basic needs (esp. food). It seemed to me to be more of a vehicle to placate his family's guilt for having him institutionalized as a child than it was a genuine effort to "celebrate" his life. And clearly it furthers the outdated stereotypes that people have about individuals with DS. I know this is a harsh criticism and realize and respect that many of your will disagree. Incidentally, I emailed the creater ('s sister) to express my views (less harshly) and request that she reissue the movie presenting her brother in a more positive light, but I never

received a reply..... Sheryljudig2 wrote: This is from an email I got from "Twinsworld". Has anybody seen this yet? I never had a chance to go when it was in the theaters. I never saw much advertising for it either.Judi-Mom to Sam & , Identical Twins/10GREAT NEWS-The Award Winning film "MY BROTHER" that Debbie and I helped to cast (starring 2 DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED NEW STARS-W/DOWN SYNDROM) is going to be available on

DVD starting MAY 29th all over the country at all retailers and online. This GROUND BREAKING film starring , Tatum O'Neil and Hollywoods two newest stars (Donovan Jennings & -BOTH DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED w/DOWN SYNDROME) is a must see film. IT IS FINALLY AVAILABLE FOR THOSE THAT DID NOT SEE IT IN THEATERS. This film was an amazing journey as well as a labor of love for us!! WE ARE VERY PROUD TO HAVE BEEN INVOLVED WITH THIS FILMThe film "MY BROTHER" uses people with developmental disabilities to portray characters with disabilities instead of taking the easy route with using non-disabled actors; is to say the least, ground-breaking. PLEASE CHECK YOUR LOCAL STARS, AMAZON, BORDERS, ONLINE, ETCYOU CAN SEE MORE ABOUT THE FILM ON: www.myspace.com/mybrotherthemovieSheryl Knapp Literacy Advocates www.LiteracyAdvocates.com