The Anonymous People

This movie talks about the one topic that has been in the dark for a long time. It gives the person that is just coming into recovery hope. I have used it so many times to give the newcomer hope. When I a person is confronted with the disease of addiction it is like any other disease. Denial sets in. While in the middle of getting help and dealing with the denial a movie like this will help them know that they are not alone and that recovery is possible. What is wrong with that. I would say it is a 12 step help movie. But it is not bound by the old misconceptions of a fellowship. I need to add there is nothing wrong with 12 step fellowships. But they needed help to get the message across. And this movie by Greg Williams is the best that I seen in a long time. Bravo to all that were involved.

Whether you are in recovery, love someone in recovery or are still struggling with addiction, you NEED to see this film. This film does an excellent job of explaining the history of the recovery advocacy movement, what has worked and what hasn't, where we stand today, and the changes that are so desperately needed. From the opening shot, I was glued to my seat and I found myself laughing and crying. The film is both interesting and thought provoking. I left the theater feeling invigorated and empowered to become a part of this very important Recovery Advocacy movement. A huge thank you to the film maker and every cast member for creating this life-changing film.

As a person in long term recovery myself, I appreciate that this movie made me think more intimately about the way that I choose to share or not share that information with others. It has long been obvious and frustrating to me how many people's lives are wasted because they cannot access adequate recovery from the disease of addiction. It did not previously occur to me that I could be influential in any way with regard to that problem. I am a teacher and generally hold my cards close. What would the community, parents, or my co-workers think if they knew this "dirty" secret from my past? On the other hand, I am proud of what I've accomplished. Maybe they would think that I am an amazing, talented, kind, generous,intelligent, responsible person, with integrity, who has overcome adversity, raised two children who have never had to witness parents using, who volunteers in the community, and contributes to society. Maybe others who are struggling might see that and get a glimmer of hope for themselves? I can appreciate the premise, and the hope, that if more people like me stood up and let the light shine on who we are, and how many we are, that it would no longer be a dirty little secret, but a proud accomplishment. We would not be seen as dirty, creepy, dangerous criminals, but people with a disease who are worthy and entitled to adequate health care & recovery. If it were not for seeing this movie, I probably would not have posted this in a public space. I am a person in long term recovery. For me that means that I have not had a drink or a drug since June 4, 1989. I write, I vote, and I make a positive difference in the world. Thank you to the producers of Anonymous People for reminding me that we are many, we are awesome, we are powerful, and we can change the world.

This film is great. I mean it shows the real deal behind every addict. The fact that we are good people, suffering with a disease, not choosing to be addicted. I love that it focuses on the recovery piece instead of the disease piece! I would love to see more people come forward about their issues like these brave souls. Tell the world, show the world, how wonderful we can be and are in recovery. Almost everyone knows someone close to them that is affected by the disease of addiction and should have the opportunity to view this. My hope is that this will become a huge part of stigma reduction if we can just get people to take the time to watch it. This film focuses on all forms of recovery so there is no discrimination towards any one chosen path. This is going to be a crucial piece in the current recovery movement. I am proud to say I am I'm in recovery and so grateful that I had the opportunity to witness this masterpiece.

This film gracefully and respectfully challenges the idea that to be part of the 12 step community you must hide the miracle of your longterm, successful recovery! Keep it safe for newcomers but once you are strong, share about recovery (not 12 step) and make our message loud enough to be a formidable constituency to the legislature and media. I want a recovery high school in my town! The film is a little long - maybe a little too much history and not enough information about actions to be taken now. About three quarters through the film there is a driving piece of music and rising set of inspirational images. I thought the film would climax in that emotional rise, but instead the music ended and I got more information. It could have ended there for me. I have sent many people to see it and I will definitely see it again.