Consult your Doctor about side-effects
Trailer and discussion is available after clicking on the link with program title
BLUE ROOM Monday 11th 9.00 – 13.00
Session Leader: Carvin Eison
Three fascinating programmes examine mental health issues. From the Netherlands, the controversial drama “Nothing to Lose” arouses a debate about mentally ill criminals. From Finland “The Verdict” adapts a unique current affairs format to explore issues of gun control within the society. And from the United Kingdom “How Mad are You?” features three psychiatrists as they attempt to diagnose sanity from madness.
Nothing to Lose
The Netherlands / Fiction – Drama / 90’
Shopsteward: Carvin Eison
Programme Presenter: Pieter Kuijpers
A well produced drama that questions the sanity of an escaped criminal. Johan, the lead character, takes the audience on a wild ride deeper into insanity as he seeks to prove his innocence. How well does this film explore the problems of the criminally insane? How extensively discussed is this issue in the Netherlands? What can we conclude and take from this programme?
The Verdict
Finland / TV Specific / 28’03’’
Shopsteward: Stephen Chigorimbo
Porgramme Presenter: Matti Virtanen
The format for The Verdict is unusual and brave for current affairs and factual television programming. The adaptation of the format could have the audience really thinking about the problem.
Horizon: How Mad Are You?
United Kingdom / TV Specific / 59’
Shopsteward: Carvin Eison
Programme Presenter: Rob Liddell
This reality TV programme asks the question who is sane or insane within a population of 10 people asked to perform various tasks in a group setting. Three analysts must put their reputations on the line and determine which of the “contestants” suffer from a range of disorders including depression, and schizophrenia. This production raises a serious question of exploitation for the purpose of making a television show to gain higher ratings.
