Written by Matthew Alfino and directed by James Spiteri, the film is entitled “Stembah!” which is Maltese for “wake up!” The video, 10 minutes in length presents the real-life situations experienced by children, when for various reasons they are forced to live a part of their lives in childrens’ homes and shows how in these situations the ability to respond is essential.
For the children who live in these centres, in fact, it is easy to into contact with mental handicap; the film deals openly with this subject and shows the trauma which can affect the young when one or more members of their family are faced with mental health problems. The defence mechanisms used by the smallest ones are effectively presented as is the importance of suitable treatment so as to grow strong and overcome the effects of the experiences.
Many were present at the first showing of the film, including: the Hon. Cyrus Engerer, Deputy Mayor of Sliema, various Salesians, the members of BOSCOcrew, actors and other involved in the production of the video.
Before the first showing Fr Eric Cachia SDB coordinator of BOSCOcrew, gave a short account of the recent activities of the group. After the showing Fr Paul Formosa, Rector of the “St. Alphonsus” Salesian centre in Sliema and Provincial Delegate in Malta spoke giving a summary of the work undertaken.
The aim of the BOSCOcrew production centre is to evangelise through the media, and at the same time to give the young members of the group the opportunity to develop their skills in useful ways. The film is part of a larger package of educational resources which in the coming months will be marketed in schools, as a means of encouraging reflection and discussion on social problems of handicap.
Published 19/01/2011
