Directed by Kate Schermerhorn | 63 mins | United States | United States
Do I Need This? is a documentary film about consumerism, excess, and the stuff from which happiness is truly made. Critics call it ‘life-changing’ and 'unique, quizzical, quirky, and funny.’ The award-winning film delicately interweaves the filmmaker’s complicated relationship with her family possessions, everything seemingly imbued with memories and meaning, together with a journey into the homes and minds of her fellow Americans.
When the filmmaker’s parents downsize into assisted living, and her mother starts to show signs of Alzheimer’s, the search turns to the stuff that really matters. On the surface, Do I Need This? is a joy ride through American excessive consumption habits; at its core, it is a profound, provocative, and genuine reflection on aging, family, legacy, and happiness. Do I Need This? is a perfect conversation starter for older adults and their families.