Summer in the Forest

Summer in the Forest takes us into the L'Arche community outside Paris and the life of its founder, the Canadian Jean Vanier. An ex-British naval officer, Vanier founded the community to provide a home for those whose disabilities had forced them into grim institutions.

In particular, the film involves us in the lives of some of L'Arche's residents, both in France and in one of its offshoots in Bethlehem. Their humanity, their foibles and their endearing friendship are all demonstrated powerfully throughout the documentary. Vanier's philosophy that love, peace and friendship will drive out fear pervades the whole film.

By its end we not only understand better the challenges faced by those branded as 'not normal' but we also take with us the serenity that pervades a summer in the forest. And that heart-warming feeling captured by director Randall Wright, along with the superb photography and spot-on musical score by John Harle merits the 10 rating.

I was deeply moved by this film that highlights the life of a remarkable human being. This document is a beautiful testament to the peace, hope, and joy that he brings to the world and receives from the world. How beautiful that a film gives voice to the too often silenced - that it allows for their stories to unfold with honesty and respect. This film also honours people who dedicate their lives to improving the lives of others; people who work with the ignored, neglected, marginalized, different. It calls on us to question our view of success and to reimagine the lives of those considered weak. With all that ugliness and pain and horror we see and hear about, here is a reminder that there is a lot of humanity and beauty in the world. Thank you to Jean Vanier for your guidance and wisdom and thank you to all the people of L'Arche who so honestly opened a small window into their lives and allows us to celebrate all that they are.

This is a beautifully presented peep into the lives of the people with various learning difficulties who live in L'Arche in Paris (and also Jerusalem). Each one of them is allowed to take the time and space to be both themselves and a part of their community. Jean Varnier is the unique philanthropist at the centre of their lives. This film reminds us all of the fundamental priorities of life. I loved it