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Deep Dive: Boy Interrupted (2009)

Film Lens

Boy Interrupted
Boy Interrupted is a documentary about Evan Perry, who faced bipolar depression from a young age. The film, created by his parents Dana and Hart Perry, chronicles Evan's life, his struggles with mental illness, and the impact on his family. It includes footage from his childhood, starting with his suicidal comments at age four, and follows his journey through various treatments, including a diagnosis of depression at age five and later bipolar depression. The documentary captures Evan's early loving nature and his later behavioral changes, including his first suicide attempt at age ten. Despite receiving treatment, Evan died by suicide in 2005 at age 15. The film was intended to raise awareness about mental health issues and was later shown at the Sundance Film Festival in 2009, as well as released on television and DVD.

Why Watch

  • Meet Evan Perry, diagnosed with depression at age 5.
  • See the impact of mental illness on a family.
  • Follow Evan's story through his parents' lens.

Did You Know

Evan Perry was diagnosed with depression at age 5.
Evan attempted suicide for the first time at age 10.
The documentary was shown at the Sundance Film Festival four years after Evan's death.

Perfect For

Mental health awarenessFamily dynamicsDocumentary filmmaking