My Depression

Sigourney Weaver, Steve Buscemi, and Fred Armisen are among the voice talent cast for this animated HBO-aired documentary from filmmakers Roz Lichter and Josh Hetzler centered on the complex issues and symptoms surrounding clinical depression. The central character is a woman who appears carefree at times, but more often is staving off the emergence of a black cloud or is losing her sense of self-worth in a world full of people she believes are more interesting than her. She tries to stay isolated, but a friend lures her up from the depths only to find that our poor heroine isn't ready for it: she can't find anything to talk about, can't make eye contact—all she wants to do is escape. Outlining some of the symptoms of protracted depression, including mercurial temperament, unpredictability, and suicidal thoughts and feelings, My Depression reminds viewers that there is no quick fix, but often lots of hard work involving commitment to therapy, while on the road to gradually rebuilding self-esteem. Based on Broadway producer Elizabeth Swados's award-winning 2005 memoir My Depression: A Picture Book, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)