Advocacy: the Movie Canvas

the national NAMI organization has honored the movie CANVAS with an Outstanding Media Award for its accurate, balanced and compassionate portrayal of a family transformed by mental illness. It is scheduled for release in theaters in a few cities in October 2007, but successful, broad distribution depends on support and publicity from the grassroots.

See www.canvasthefilm.com
to view the trailer and sign up for updates.

See the NAMI Media Award press release.

You can help the film be seen by contacting the Oprah Winfrey Show to ask that the director and the cast be interviewed on her show. It would help educate people about the real-life experiences of families who battle schizophrenia, promote the movie, and recognize extraordinary performances by Marcia Gay Harden, Joe Pantoliano, and Devon Gearhart who "got it right" in  their movie roles. Personal notes sent by regular mail have the greatest impact. For stigma-busting, it could be the most important letter you write all year.

Ms. Oprah Winfrey
The Oprah Winfrey Show
Harpo Productions
110 North Carpenter Street
Chicago , Illinois 60607-2104
or email Oprah