Film Lens
The documentary 'Night Children' presents a view of children in distress within an urban environment. It follows the work of Mary Linton from the Children's Aid Society as she responds to calls about children in need. The film captures the challenges faced by both the children and their parents, highlighting cases such as a boy whose mother has committed suicide and a girl named Donna who is left in a cold, unwelcoming home. Through these stories, the film reveals the harsh realities of child welfare and the struggles of families in crisis.
The narrative unfolds through a series of phone calls that Linton receives, each representing a child in trouble. The film emphasizes the emotional weight of these calls and the urgency of the situation, as Linton navigates the complexities of family dynamics and the need for support. The documentary portrays the difficult balance between helping families stay together and ensuring the safety of children, showcasing the often tragic outcomes of these situations.
Why Watch
- •Follow Mary Linton as she answers urgent calls for help.
- •Meet children like Donna facing difficult home situations.
- •See the impact of a mother's struggles on her child.
Did You Know
•The Children's Aid Society receives about fifty calls a day regarding children in need.
•Mary Linton responds to a call about a boy whose mother has just killed herself.
•Donna, a child featured in the film, is described as hungry and cold in her home.
•Mrs. Snell, Donna's mother, claims she doesn't need help despite her situation.
Perfect For
Child welfare advocatesSocial work studentsUrban community organizers