Documentary: Possessed – The world of hoarders
POSSESSED from Martin Hampton on Vimeo.
See http://www.possessed.me.uk to learn more, see extra material, or buy on DVD.
‘POSSESSED’ enters the complicated worlds of four hoarders; people whose lives are dominated by their relationship to possessions. The film questions whether hoarding is a symptom of mental illness or a revolt against the material recklessness of consumerism. When does collecting become hoarding and why do possessions exert such an influence on our lives?
Made during a Visual Anthropology Masters at Goldsmiths College London last year. Winner of the Silver Egg at Emir Kusturica’s Kustendorf Film Festival, 2008 and Winner at BLIFF 2008, (Banja Luka International Film Festival www.bliff.net ).
It plays best on Full Screen with HD on and scaling off. If its still jerky, switch HD off.
This is a very common and growing problem. If you know anyone who is clearly a hoarder, please try to show them this film. I would be very interested to know how they respond. A feature of the disorder is that people often deny there is a problem. When they finally do realise they are in trouble they tend to think they have a unique problem which leads to a feeling of shame, isolation and despair. It’s a very complex problem without a quick fix, but with care and understanding it is possible to get on top of it. I’ve seen it done.
For more info on Hoarding go to
http://www.possessed.me.uk
http://www.ocfoundation.org
http://www.ocdaction.org.uk/ocdaction/index.asp?id=429
http://www.squalorsurvivors.com/index.shtml
http://www.childrenofhoarders.com/forum/index.php
http://www.mha-sf.org/programs/ichc.cfm
I am now researching the next stage of the project. I am trying to compile a collection of peoples experiences of OCD and other anxiety based disorders. I have found from experience that although symptoms might be similar, the actual particularities of the obsessions and compulsions are often very varied.
I would be very grateful to hear of your or any friend/acquaintances experiences/difficulties.
If you wish to purchase a DVD of the film go to www.possessed.me.uk or contact me directly