Split: A Film for Kids of Divorce (and Their Parents)

Kids ages 6-12 share their feelings and experiences as children of divorce in this affecting production from producer-director Ellen Bruno, who presents one-on-one interviews with her subjects, as they talk about the challenges of issues such as moving between two homes, dealing with parent arguments, and coping with this significant change in their lives. The conversations are held at their homes, where they're surrounded by toys and other familiar items, adding warmth to the presentation and seemingly putting the interviewees at ease. Bruno has found a remarkably philosophical group of youngsters, whose insights are thoughtful, intelligent, and even amusing as they discuss how to communicate with mom and dad, share their fears (that a mother or father will go away forever, for example), and talk about their hurt over the lack of attention from one parent while another takes on more responsibility for child-rearing. Simultaneously charming and heartbreaking animated segments that look like kids' drawings offer a powerful visual complement to the emotions being expressed here. A revealing portrait of the confusion, anger, and helplessness that children can feel when faced with divorce, this is highly recommended. Aud: E, I, P. (K. Cruver)