Film Lens
Warrendale is a documentary filmed over five weeks at the Warrendale residential treatment center near Toronto. It observes twelve emotionally disturbed children and the staff who care for them, capturing daily life without narration, interviews, or direction. Allan King records the interactions and routines of the children and staff, creating what he termed 'actuality drama.' The film presents a raw and unfiltered view of the children's experiences and the environment in which they live.
The absence of traditional documentary techniques allows viewers to witness the realities of life at Warrendale. The film focuses on the children’s behaviors, their relationships with caregivers, and the overall atmosphere of the treatment center. This approach provides a unique perspective on mental health treatment during the 1960s in Canada, emphasizing the complexities of emotional disturbances in children.
Why Watch
- •See daily life at a 1960s treatment center.
- •Meet twelve children with emotional disturbances.
- •Find out how staff interact with the children.
Did You Know
•The film was shot over a period of five weeks.
•There are twelve emotionally disturbed children featured in the film.
•Warrendale was filmed at a residential treatment center near Toronto.
•The film has a duration of 101 minutes.
Perfect For
Mental health studiesDocumentary enthusiasts1960s Canadian history