At the Beach

Directed by Jeremy Peter Allen, this addition to the National Film Board of Canada's 5 Shorts Project series takes a brief glimpse at a July 2014 beach event held by Association des Grands Brûlés F.L.A.M., a Quebec resource for burn victims and their families. At first, the chatter of families and shots of sunbathers and beachgoers make this seem like any other popular recreation spot, but a closer look reveals that a number of people have various burns. A few talk about being out in the sun for the first time in years and feeling comfortable at an outing where scars need not be hidden. “You can't change what you are,” says one participant. “If it bothers people, they can just look away.” An interesting short depicting a lazy summer day gathering that was likely both challenging and freeing for participants, this slice-of-life portrait is recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Williams-Wood)