Without Apology

Part journey of familial discovery, part record of changing attitudes regarding the treatment of the developmentally disabled, Susan Hamovitch's fine documentary focuses on rediscovering her brother Alan, who was institutionalized in 1958. One might quibble with the film's almost confessional approach, in which Hamovitch assiduously traces her search to uncover her sibling's past—offering hushed, self-revelatory narration as she goes along—but watching her sift through institutional records, study family photos and home movies, and interview her father and other relatives not only lends the film a certain sense of suspense but also adds emotional weight to the narrative arc (the final act, in which we see her interacting with Alan, trying to recapture lost years, is especially touching). But Without Apology isn't just a personal story: the Hamovitch family's experiences are told within the larger context of the historical treatment of the mentally challenged, reminding viewers that a half-century ago it was thought proper to conceal a family's “unfortunate secrets” through institutionalization. And the film also touches on New York's decision to shift from large, impersonal facilities to smaller group homes in which residents can integrate more easily into the surrounding community (a change brought about by the exposure of scandalous conditions at some of the bigger operations). A powerful and affecting film, Without Apology is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)