Educational Media Reviews Online

An intimate snapshot of the lives of seven African-American men as they work towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Emmy award winning journalist, Bill Moyers, brings to the surface the underlying reasons for their addiction as well as their struggles with other issues in American society - relationships, racism, self-image, and family life. These seven men have formed a support group that meets weekly to, as one of them says, "...sit around and get honest with each other."

Interview questions by Moyers introduce the topics, whether it be dealing with work or learning to relate to their children, and we then see the discussion take place in a group setting. The deep-seated reasons many of these men chose to abuse a mind-altering substance is the same for most others regardless of race - a sense of worthlessness, powerlessness, shame, or low self-esteem. What makes this video unique is the added dimension of race and gender in our society. They discuss from a male perspective, dealing with women, with their fathers, and with their children. Growing up with racism was a major influence for many in the group, and the powerful support they provide each other pervades the sessions. Clips of the men at work, or with their families, puts the men and their roles in perspective. Moyers' skillful honest and direct questioning elicits honesty in return.

The program gives a look not only at the major issues outlined above, but the support group process. It is a finely produced program, even if a bit tedious at times. Those libraries supporting African-American Studies, Social Work, Health Sciences, or Sociology would find this most useful. Recommended for both undergraduate and graduate level courses.