Still Doing It: The Intimate Lives of Women Over 65 2004
Distributed by New Day Films, 190 Route 17M, P.O. Box 1084, Harriman, NY 10926; 888-367-9154 or 845-774-7051
Produced by Deirdre Fishel, Diana Holtzberg, Jan Rofekamp
Directed by Deirdre Fishel
VHS, color, 54 min.
College - Adult
Aging, Sociology, Women's Studies, Gender Studies
Date Entered: 02/28/2006
Reviewed by Robin Migliaccio Ashford, Reference Librarian, Watzek Library, Lewis & Clark College, Portland, ORIn Still Doing It: The Intimate Lives of Women Over 65 nine women (age 67-87) from diverse backgrounds reveal their thoughts on sex, love, and aging. The openness and honesty of the women during the interview process is extraordinary and somewhat startling. They do not fit cultural stereotypes of older women. Each woman’s story is valuable; they are intelligent and articulate, humorous and hopeful, have lived full lives, and continue living life to the fullest. They are single, straight, gay, partnered, black and white, and their diversity adds to the richness of the film. This intimate exploration provides an excellent opportunity for discussions regarding ageist notions. This is an important film for an aging nation.
The director does a superb job of revealing what is most meaningful from each of the nine women in 54 minutes. The quality of the production is first-rate. There are some scenes with brief nudity. This film is packed with valuable content and highly entertaining.
Young At Heart features the story of an endearing couple, both widowed artists, who fall in love in their mid-eighties. Their account proves romance and love can occur at any age. They have experienced tragedies in their lives, yet they choose not only to survive but to thrive. The title is well chosen; with their enthusiasm and vitality they exude youthfulness. They are individuals who believe that life is what you make it, that age is not a limitation. This film is full of hope and possibilities; despite adversity, these individuals refused to withdraw. The couple demonstrates the power of love as they appreciate and treasure each other, thus experiencing renewed vigor. Watching this film is a delightful and thought-provoking experience.
The quality of the production is excellent. Though first produced in 1987, the film does not have a dated feel. With our aging and oftentimes lonely population, this film may be more relevant today than when first released.
Both Still Doing It: The Intimate Lives of Women Over 65 and Young At Heart stress the importance of attitude on aging, and shatter stereotypes. With the former, the issues are surrounding sex and notions of ageism, while the latter focuses on aging, love and romance. Both are filled with hope and poignant realities. Young at Heart would be suitable for a broader range of libraries and collections, but both are highly entertaining, wonderfully produced, quality films. They are highly recommended for college and adult collections.
Awards:
- Young At Heart – 1987 Academy Award Winner, Best Documentary, Short Subject