Uncoupled: Dealing with the Death of a Spouse

In Uncoupled, two men and two women who have lost their spouses talk about their experiences with various stages of the grieving process. The interviewees comment on the initial shock and confusion following the deaths of their mates, recount the well-meaning but unhelpful clichés they heard from others (“be strong,” etc.), discuss the difficulties of adjusting to being single again, and touch on what to do with the deceased's personal belongings. Produced by the Calgary Health Region Grief Support Center, Uncoupled suffers a bit from somewhat corny computer-generated nature scenes and soothing background muzak, but the candid interviews bring a personal touch to this program, which reminds viewers that there is no single correct response to handling grief. Of course, the interviewees do share similar experiences, and some of the suggestions here might initially sound like obvious common sense, but could in fact be just the guidance people need in a situation for which no one can truly plan ahead. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Wadland)