Smile4Kime 2023
Distributed by Good Docs
Produced by Cybee Bloss
Directed by Elena Guzman
Streaming, 26 mins
College - General Adult
African Americans; Depression; Mental health
Date Entered: 03/27/2024
Reviewed by Stephanie A. Diaz, Education, Instruction, Outreach Librarian, Case Western Reserve UniversitySmile4Kime is a short documentary made by filmmaker Elena Guzman that reflects on Guzman’s close (and sometimes strained) bond with her friend, Kime. Guzman weaves diary film footage, experimental shots, and whimsical animations to delicately capture Kime’s vibrant personality as well as Kime’s struggles with depression and suicidal ideation. Guzman uses the film to bravely explore her own feelings about supporting and loving a friend in that state.
Viewers should be aware that the primary themes of this film include mental illness, suicide, and sexual assault. Though brief, Kime is also shown commenting on the lack of awareness and understanding she experienced from police and clinicians as an African American seeking help for her mental health concerns. The film intimately captures the friendship between and personal experiences of the two subjects, however, it does not delve into the mental health subjects further.
Smile4Kime is recommended for adult audiences and would be ideal for trauma support groups and individuals interested in exploring topics related to friendship, mental health, depression, and suicide.
Published and licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. Anyone can use these reviews, so long as they comply with the terms of the license.