Educational Media Reviews Online

Hope of Awakening is a 24 minute video about domestic violence. It was written, directed, and produced by Constance Carlisle. The video covers the stories of three victims of domestic violence: Donna, Mary, and Vee. Divided into short segments (The Relationship, Abuse, Control, Emotional Abuse, The Awaking, etc.), Hope of Awakening juxtaposes interviews with the three women with commentary by clinical psychologist Dr Elizabeth Kalb. In addition, dramatic statistics about domestic violence from the American Bar Association, American Medical Association, Donna Shalala, as well as others are inserted between segments.

While the rapid pace of Hope of Awakening was interesting, I kept hoping for more in depth coverage, particularly when the three women were talking about their early family life. The video was cut into too many segments, particularly toward the end. The sequences where letters, presumably written by the three women, were highlighted by the camera were difficult to read. Moreover, I found the use of statistics to be somewhat overdone. Most people recognize that domestic violence is a serious problem. Do we need to be reminded of this throughout the program? Furthermore, I had some tracking and sound problems on my examination copy, and the picture image seemed grainy on my television.

This video, despite its flaws, contains much useful information. I learned that victims of domestic violence suffer from "learned helplessness" and a poor self image. Although I felt that the final segments of the video could have been compressed, I liked the suggestions on finding help, seeking a support group, and ending abusive relationships. The shortness of the video could be helpful for those looking for a stimulus to further discussion. It could also be useful for public libraries, high schools, and women's support groups.