It has taken me a long time to understand that art is not a human luxury, but a necessity. This film teaches that lesson quickly and adamantly. A stack of textbooks explaining SIV could not impact a person more than this 21-minute film. between the lines serves the purpose of art: to impact the world, to move people to a new place of appreciation, to bring a fresh perspective on some aspect of life.
Although all reviewers have their own personal bias, few write reviews about projects they themselves have participated in. I am in this predicament. However, not to review this film because I have a small role in it would be a disservice. It is important that people become aware of its existence and they can then make up their own minds regarding its impact.
between the lines is a crucial work that transcends the limits that usually constrain the exploration of the topic of self-injury. It is well titled, because commonly the focus is “on the lines” – on the actual wounds. Yet what is most important is what exists “between the lines” – the actual person. The person using SIV is a living, feeling, human being with her own life history as well as motivations and needs. This film brings you some of these people. It is documentation of their voices and of their wholeness. It is especially refreshing in these times of clinical perspectives and the objectification of people into diagnostic categories.
I raise a toast to Sophie Constantinou for her creation. Years of work have culminated in a production that is already touching and teaching people around the globe. between the lines has been shown in several American and Canadian cities, as well as in