The Frog Princes 2011
Distributed by National Film Board of Canada, 1123 Broadway, Suite 307, New York, NY 10010; 800-542-2164
Produced by Bob Moore and Omar Majeed /An Eyesteelfilm Production
Directed by Ryan Mullins and Omar Majeed
DVD , color, 45 min.
Sr. High - General Adult
Acting, Drama, Education, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education
Date Entered: 06/03/2014
Reviewed by Deidra N. Herring, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OHThe documentary is an enlightening story about drama therapy for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Members of The Centre for the Arts in Human Development serve as facilitators to strategically help individuals set goals to enhance their quality of life.
Although the film focuses on the preparation of theatre performance, it provides the audience with a understanding of what drama therapy is and how it can play a significant role in the lives of individuals who are coping with their own emotions and frustrations. The actors are forced to deal with the many challenges of committing to the play, which requires each to exercise self-discipline by mastering their creative skills. The group quickly finds that nothing is ever easy as they are pushed to overcome some of these challenges. The Frog Princes is purposeful in providing insight on how drama therapy can unfold when working with adults with special needs. Although the acting coach is engaging and supportive some scenes become a bit awkward as frustration sets in. Overall, the film is of high quality and is recommended for school, public, and academic libraries.