Video Catalog > Mental Health

Saichi, the central figure in Fools' Dance, is a mysterious stranger who changes forever the lives of those he touches in the convalescent home where he arrives one day. With a penchant for Shakespeare, he encourages staff and patients alike to "play the fool"-- to reaffirm life in the face of death. At first he is regarded as simply senile and then downright disruptive as other patients begin to demonstrate their own brand of joie de vivre. But he soon proves that there is wisdom to his folly. He teaches both residents and staff that life, even in the shadow of death, is to be enjoyed to the fullest. Esther Rolle, who plays a beleaguered staff member, rediscovers the feelings that led her to choose her career in the first place. "I haven't felt this way in twenty years," she tells Saichi as they both mourn the loss of a resident.

Fools' Dance is a provocative parody of life in a nursing home. Through Fools' Dance, Saichi the mykonin, the simple but enlightened one, reminds viewers of simple but important truths often overlooked. Fools' Dance is an unusual but compelling video for staff education. It is an excellent vehicle for encouraging discussion about staff burnout or helping staff come to grips with the loss of a patient.

Color, 30 Minutes, VHS

Price : $150.00

Awards: CINE Golden Eagle;Chris, Columbus; Retirement Research Foundation Award