Andrew Solomon’s groundbreaking book Far From the Tree, published in 2012, examined how parents face their children’s extreme differences. In 2018, filmmaker Rachel Dretzin has adapted the book into a beautifully crafted documentary, featuring families who offer intimate access to how they experience surprise, resilience, sorrow, courage, hope and joy with their children. They have a lot to teach us about the depths of love as they confront conditions such as Down syndrome, autism and dwarfism. The film serves to challenge ideas of ‘normality’ and dispel fear over what’s perceived as ‘abnormal.’

Watch the advanced screening of the documentary, and stay for a Q&A with Director Rachel Dretzin and Author Andrew Solomon. Pizza will be served. 

No RSVP/registration required.

The Film Fridays Documentary Series is sponsored by the duPont-Columbia Awards and the Columbia Journalism School Documentary Program.

Image courtesy Participant Media