Co-directed and shown from the perspective of Bud Clayman, OC87 is a deeply intimate portrait of a man with mental illness. Told with a brave voice, the journey is both inspirational and heartbreaking.
There is a misconception about mental illness that a diagnosis fits into a clearly defined set of symptoms. The reality is that every case is different and often goes mistreated or misdiagnosed entirely. In the case of Bud Clayman, his symptoms were gradual until such time where he was put into a residential care center for recovery. After 8 years, he’s emerged still coping with daily life, but with a renewed sense of faith in himself and those around him. His battle is not over, and never will be, but with the support of his family and in making this documentary, he’s able to share how he sees the world.
Although the film has a direction, I really wanted a bit more backstory. Bud’s location is taken for granted and not knowing the area, I didn’t know he lived in Philadelphia until an hour into the film. I knew it was on the east coast, but there was no other information to go on. This of course isn’t a major flaw, but something that was overlooked.
The strength of the film is in the voiceover. We all live inside our own head, so it’s interesting to get inside someone else’s, especially if that other person had a viewpoint that his different from our own. I really enjoyed the segment with the Jon Grayson, PhD as he attempted to describe how an OCD sufferer viewed the world. This was extremely fascinating to hear him explain and speak with Bud. I would have liked much more time devoted to the clinical and therapeutic side.
The best part of the film is the recreation of the “Lost in Space” episode. I found Bud to be a very good actor as he shined playing the two versions of himself. It’s clear he has a passion for film, so I hope to see him do more either in front of, or behind the camera.
Rating: High marks for the idea and concept, but the execution was a bit hazy. 7/10
New York, New York begins OC87’s theatrical run on May 25th at the Village East Cinemas in NYC (181-189 Second Avenue).
Los Angeles, California will be the second theatrical destination for OC87 starting on June 8, 2012 at the Laemmle Theaters (Laemmle Music Hall 3, Laemmle Playhouse 7, Laemmle Town Center 5) and Regal Edwards University Town Center 6 in Irvine, CA.
For additional screenings, check here.
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