Joanna 2013
Distributed by Cinema Guild, 115 West 30th Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10001; 212-685-6242
Produced by Adam Slesicki
Directed by Aneta Kopacz
DVD , color, 40 min., Polish with English subtitles
General Adult
Sociology, Social Work, Health Care
Date Entered: 07/01/2015
Reviewed by Rodney Birch, Reference Librarian, George Fox UniversityJoanna is a narrative of a young mother’s life and her struggle with terminal cancer. Desiring to leave a legacy for her young son, that he might continue to learn from her after her death, Joana creates an online journal. The film captures the joy of the mundane, the intimate moments between mother and son and husband and wife. Joana often shares things she has written with her son for him to ask questions. Joana passed away in 2012. The essence of the film is to engage in life - even in the mundane activities, to listen, and to love. The viewer observes how a young child comes to terms with his mother’s illness through his interactions with and questions to her about life, and her life, specifically. There is some swearing in the film. This film is a good resource for sociology, social work, and health care.