Educational Media Reviews Online

The Addicts Recovery Center (ARC), located in Harlem, was the first free substance abuse treatment center in New York State. It was founded by James Allen, a former addict himself, who felt that drug and alcohol rehabilitation should be available to anyone who needs it, regardless of their ability to pay. This film showcases ARC, and gives the viewer a glimpse into the lives of some of those involved in the program.

ARC treats hundreds of addicts at any one time, many of who have gone through the program before. The treatment regimen they go through is difficult and emotionally draining. Frequent counseling is required, as is attending school or finding a job. The staff at ARC, many of who have had drug or alcohol problems of their own, push the addicts very hard! They expect those in the program to follow its rules and regulations without hesitation, and except no excuses for not doing so. The philosophy at ARC (and indeed many other rehabilitation centers) is that recovery is ultimately in the hands of the addicts themselves. They must make a firm commitment to their own recovery, and will only do so if they receive strong and persistent encouragement, as well as criticism, from the staff. In spite of their harshness, the staff have a deep compassion and concern for the people in the program, and are strongly committed to helping them.

Many addicts are profiled as the film progresses. Michelle is a crack user, who has frequently turned to prostitution to acquire drugs. She has been alienated from her mother and two children, and has entered ARC in hopes of getting them back into her life. Brent is a talented writer and composer, but his addiction to drugs has kept him from fulfilling his potential. Peter is addicted to multiple substances, and has committed armed robbery to feed his habit. He has entered the program to meet the conditions of his parole. Each of these people will struggle through the program, and experience varying degrees of success and failure. From the beginning to the end of the film, the viewer is exposed to the restful sounds of ARC’s choir, which is made up entirely of those enrolled in the program. Mr. Allen started the choir for two reasons. Primarily it is a form of therapy. Secondly, it is a means to display the hidden potential of those involved in it. The choir, as well as ARC itself, has deep religious roots which reflect the strong spiritual beliefs of Mr. Allen.

This film allows the viewer to see the process of rehabilitation, both from the standpoint of the addicts and those who treat them. Also, it well explains ARC’s history and mission. The narration, provided by Ossie Davis, gives the film structure and helps to put each of the situations portrayed into context. It is suitable for high school, undergraduate or graduate students. Those studying substance abuse and the problems of poor inner-city neighborhoods will find it the most useful, as will students of African-American studies, sociology and psychology.

Highly Recommended