..."But the biggest disability is our inability to see behind it..."

Certain Proof: A Question of Worth

Film Review from Vail Film Festival

By Thomas N.

..." Much of the film focuses on the relationship with the mothers and their children, along with the struggles the mothers go through to prove their children’s potential. When the Ellises first met the mothers of these three children, they noticed that the mothers hope had faded and they had given up on the school system. Yet making this movie helped to restore the hope that the mothers once had.

The Ellises chose Josh, Colin and Kay for this film as they believed they were at critical points in their growth and schooling. First grade being the beginning of a child’s journey in the public school system, third grade as the point in which the curriculum becomes much more difficult with having homework, and sixth grade when a student enters middle school.

Ms. Ellis said her favorite part of filming Certain Proof was that her expectations while at the start of filming was to help the kids have a voice but she later learned during filming the importance that those with cerebral palsy all communicate differently and that there is a “…very different perspective on what it means to communicate.” She questioned, “As receivers how are we communicating with them?”

According to Susan regarding the movie, “The trailer created quite a stir in the disability community because they generally are not exposed to the general public regarding their trails and tribulations of just getting your child an education.” This is the goal of the documentary: to educate the public.

“We should teach these children assuming they understand. Because when we assume they don’t understand, then we are not giving them the education they deserve… it is far less dangerous to teach them as if they understand.” Said Ray when asked about what he wants educators to learn form the movie..."

Directed by Ray Ellis Susan Ellis (Collaborating Director)

Produced by Patrice Donnel – Associate Producer Susan Ellis Producer

Run time 50 minutes

Reference and for further information: http://www.certainproof.com/index.html

http://www.footpathpictures.com/