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It is not easy to portray beauty in the dying process, or inspiration amidst terrible loss. Hope Is The Thing With Feathers succeeds in rendering the death of a partner a powerful elegy of hope and transcendence. This contemplative film examines issues of caregiving for a dying partner and the anticipation of one's own death. It looks at illness and bereavement as possibilities for creative expression, and for emotional and spiritual transformation. Through his powerful poetry, paintings, and testimony, Beau Riley draws a portrait of grief and healing between two people, each disabled in his own way: David, born a paraplegic; and Beau, a recovering alcoholic. The film is less a tragic story than a triumphant tribute to living life fully -- with mindfulness, compassion, and creativity -- suggesting what can survive great loss and transcend even death. For more information about this film and the filmmaker, visit the Open Eye Pictures website at www.openeyepictures.com.

The synergy [of imagery and poetry] is palpable. This beautifully lensed film is recommended.
Video Librarian

Outstanding! A must-see for anyone involved in end-of-life care, as the film artistically allows the viewer to begin to grasp the complexities of the dying process.
Roland Hulstein, MSW
Bereavement Services, Hospice of Northern California

Unflinchingly honest and dazzlingly beautiful, celebrates the art and courage of the human spirit.
Lucy Lippard
Author, "Get the Message? A Decade of Art for Social Change

A poignant portrait... offers a lasting legacy of loving and learning to let go. A testament to triumphing over tragedy.
Library Journal

The [film's] images and words define life, disease and death with utter sincerity, elemental simplicity, brave spirituality, and great beauty. An important film.
Philip Yenawine, Former Director of Education
The Museum of Modern Art, New York

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AWARDS & SCREENINGS:

• CINE Golden Eagle Award
• PBS Broadcast