Our library student assistants are back with the second round of curated picks from Docuseek. Offering more than 3,000 high-quality independent films with an emphasis on social and environmental issues, Docuseek is an invaluable resource for teaching and learning. Why not get started with one of the following standout selections?
Become inspired and emotionally invested in a facet of life that is commonly taken for granted: music. A classical pianist worthy of eternal preservation across time and space, take a look at how impactful Ludwig van Beethoven’s compositions have been on people from different backgrounds. To most, Beethoven’s music pieces are simply works of art, but to the individuals in this documentary, they mean salvation, hope, and freedom. By Kianna
Motherhood is a beautiful thing, but there is a side to it that is often not seen. The wife of a passionate film director, Valerie’s happiness was captured through a camera lens, but it failed to document her descent into depression. Once a respected and renowned makeup artist, she slowly fell apart after having to trade her old life to fulfill her role as a mother of two. Emotional and intimate, this documentary is an ode to all women like Valerie who feel like they sacrificed their freedom for family. By Kianna
This documentary follows a woman who helps connect families with those who have loved ones incarcerated. The film follows a van and the woman named Kristal who drives it and her story with her own family being in and out of prison and how that has affected her life and her loved ones as well. Their story revolves around love, the unsureness of it all, hope, and their rocky journey. The film emphasizes the flaws in the criminal justice system and the disproportionate impact on Black and Brown people. By Gabby
Vincent Van Gogh’s rise to become one of the most renowned artists is a tale of struggle and perseverance. This documentary follows his sister-in-law, Johanna Van Gogh, facing over 15 years of disdain in order to follow her late husband’s ambition for the world to see Vincent’s artwork. With beautiful impressionistic-style animations and rich emotions, this documentary brings their story to life, one of passion and resilience--if people can understand the man, perhaps they will understand his craft.
This film discusses the use of pharmaceuticals that help the consumer find happiness, lessen pain, or even attain peace. The documentary follows six individuals from six different countries who face different personal issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, tiredness from work, etc. It shows how everyone faces similar struggles despite living different scenarios, and questions if humans use pharmaceuticals as a crutch rather than constructing their own happiness.
In the second installment of A Perfect Meal, researchers explore the many benefits of olive oil, also known as liquid gold. During this episode, a study involving approximately 7,500 participants was conducted to examine the benefits of adopting a diet rich in fats from olive oil. Tune in to find out the results! By Nadia
Many thanks to our library student assistants for their summaries. We'll be posting these throughout the summer, so stay tuned!
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