Optics of Aging (2024)
In Optics of Aging stereotypes of ageism are dissolved and the beauty of aging is revealed through five elders who have shaped the landscape of Rhode Island and beyond.
A Feature Documentary that brings to life the beauty of aging.
Optics of Aging raises awareness and challenges stereotypes around aging. Through the stories of our elders, we find diverse and unique experiences that shine a light on aging.
Elders often speak of feeling invisible and worthless in our society. Stereotypes of old age can diminish elders’ ability to see themselves in a rich and unique elderhood. Those doing the stereotyping are also diminished as they shut themselves off from any vision of a rich and satisfying elderhood. We are all aging and these stories are vital to our own rich and wise aging.
Our hope is that these stories also inspire and empower older adults to live their passions, overcome their challenges, and challenge age-related stereotyping. “Ageism harms everyone – old and young. But often, it is so widespread and accepted – in our attitudes and in policies, laws and institutions – that we do not even recognize its detrimental effect on our dignity and rights, said Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.” (World Health Organization)
"I hope your film opens many eyes to a wise view of the aging process and touches many hearts that need healing because of the ageist attitudes in our culture. Thank you for creating such a fine contribution to the conscious aging movement."
David Chernikoff
Author: Life, Part Two: Seven Keys to Awakening with Purpose and Joy as You Age
"I am blown away by this wonderful film - the stories told, the histories behind those stories & storytellers, the love, challenges and truths of the aging process itself."
Derreth
"Optics of Aging is such a profound gift. Your beautiful film is an intimate, inspiring and enduring record of remarkable lives, well-lived. Kudos and huge gratitude for this stellar work!"
Katherine Brown
Author: The Sweet Folly of Hope
"It was inspiring to hear the stories of so many extraordinary humans…I left there thinking about how much I want to do with my own life."
Matt Stone
Gather Wealth Investment
"You have struck a deep vein important to us all, that has not been explored enough in our culture."
Scott Lapham
Artist, Activist and Photojournalist
New local documentary confronts ageism in society – Herb Weiss
You'll want to catch this documentary shot here in RI. HERB WEISS tells us about the important topic of ageism around us
Age is Just a Number in New Documentary
How Michelle Le Brun, a documentary filmmaker and professor at URI, is breaking the stigma and raising awareness around ageism in her new film, 'Optics of Aging.'
‘Optics of Aging’ Shines Spotlight on Rhode Island Elders at RIIFF
Award-winning documentary by Michelle Le Brun challenges ageism and celebrates the lives, wisdom, and cultural impact of five remarkable elders
