Dying to Be Thin

As this searing episode from the acclaimed television series NOVA points out, the eating disorders anorexia and bulimia have been around for centuries, with tales of women starving themselves for various reasons bookending the period when Reubenesque voluptuousness was all the rage. Some, like St. Catherine of Sienna, felt that giving up the material comfort of food brought her closer to God. Others, especially in the 19th century, felt that a slim figure (often achieved by the application of Inquisition-like corsets) indicated a demure, virtuous woman. Today, the reasons for wanting to be thin range from the unceasing barrage of media messages championing the waif look to intense competition between girls in such areas as ballet, modeling, gymnastics, and acting. Narrated by Susan Sarandon, Dying to Be Thin presents a good historical overview and in-depth look at contemporary treatments for anorexic and bulimic girls (although the scenes revealing their self-loathing and desperate efforts to keep off weight are painful and disturbing to watch). A timely, up-to-date look at a perennial problem, this inexpensive program is strongly recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (J. Carlson)