directed
by Sevan Matossian
click
here for preview
Laura,
Tim W., and Tim S. were born with developmental disabilities
and are now living outside an institution for the first time
in years. This feature length documentary explores an intimate
and original view of human struggle told through the stories
of these three unique individuals. Filmed over the duration
of one year by Sevan Matossian, who lives and works at their
home, the documentary strings together a mosaic of humor and
pain that unfolds under one roof.
The
house where Laura, Tim S., and Tim W. live is defined by its
supportive living philosophy. Each resident of the house is
under the supervision of twenty-four hour staff support. The
supportive living mantra encourages the residents to eventually
wean away from staff assistance so they can ultimately live
independently. Learning how to live on their own however,
is only one aspect of their struggles, which include dealing
with aggression and self-awareness. There are eight residents
with developmental disabilities living in the house and Our
House focuses on the three highest functioning adults.
director
– Sevan
Matossian
Sevan
has worked at the house for four years. Having unlimited access
and a great rapport with the residents, Sevan filmed nearly
every day for one year to track the developing storylines.
With a budget of $600 for production expenses, primarily consisting
of DV tapes, Our House was shot as a labor of love.
With great dedication Sevan Matossian, Greg Shields (co-director)
and Bessie Morris (producer) devoted over one year and a half
to make this very moving documentary. Compiling the 100 hours
of footage into 83 minutes was an editing process that took
five months. The initial inspiration to make the movie came
from the intense interest and emotional responses generated
by stories about the house. The goal of the filmmakers is
to raise awareness of the experiences faced by the developmentally
disabled.
This
video contains adult content and strong language.
www.ourhousethemovie.com
