Video review

This videotape is a compelling introduction to Tourette syndrome (TS), although it relies heavily on the shock value of coprolalia, a bizarre symptom of TS that affects only 15% of TS individuals. The tape begins by defining TS as a genetic, neurologic disorder, which causes involuntary movements, tics, twitching, and thoughts. The photojournalist Lowell Handler narrates the video, while telling of his own experiences as an individual with TS. He also introduces the viewer to four fascinating individuals with TS. These people are: a talented artist with severe TS; a beautiful actress; an NBA basketball player; and a Mennonite logger. There are also wonderful scenes, at once humorous and poignant, from an annual Tourette Syndrome Association meeting. A recurring theme of this film is that the TS individual's reaching out to others with TS for support can help to reduce social isolation and form a network of others who truly understand one's disorder. This is a view commonly espoused by other genetic support groups. Disturbing and provocative genetic issues are raised by the film's showing support group discussions in which individuals wth TS air their different attitudes on whether they will have children or not, and whether they wish they had never been born. The vignettes illustrate the variable expressivity of TS and provide a visual encyclopedia of tics and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. The stories also show the impact of TS on the emotions and lives of those affected. The photography is haunting and compelling, as this outstanding photojournalist combines art with a documentary about an unusual and disturbing disorder. This film will be appropriate for patients and family members, TS support groups, as well as health professionals. It will also be appropriate for educational purposes for the general public, at the high school or college level. This videotape encourages anyone who watches to find his/her own