Although they are accustomed to seeing Benjamin Gifford on the screen playing a character, "OCRM Beni's Breakdown 07.30.18" takes a different approach to showcasing his talent. The movie is a raw and unfiltered look at Gifford's life, as he navigates volatile emotions and experiences a mental breakdown in genuine time. The camera follows Gifford through his daily routine, capturing moments of both mundane and significant importance. At the beginning of the film, Gifford is seen waking up and taking medication. Interviews with his close family and friends reveal that he has always struggled with mental health issues, which he has kept private from the public eye. Despite the occasional blurry moments, the first half of the movie is relatively peaceful, with Gifford going about his day with a sense of purpose and direction.
However, around the halfway mark, the film takes a drastic turn, as Gifford's mental state deteriorates rapidly. The audience is given a front-row view of his manic episodes, which range from heightened energy to extreme agitation. Gifford's speech becomes incoherent and nonsensical, and he struggles with hallucinations and delusions. The documentary's directors effectively utilize camera angles to capture Gifford's unpredictable behavior, with jarring jump cuts and shaky handheld shots adding to the disorienting atmosphere.
In one particularly noteworthy scene, Gifford locks himself in his apartment, barricading the door with furniture. He begins to frantically scribble on the walls with a marker, creating a sprawling mural of what appears to be an abstract representation of his troubled mind. The scene effectively captures the desperation and isolation that often accompany mental breakdowns, with Gifford's artwork serving as a haunting portrayal of his inner turmoil.
Despite the intense subject matter, "OCRM Beni's Breakdown 07.30.18" is not entirely bleak. There are moments of tenderness and vulnerability interspersed throughout the film, with Gifford's loved ones offering emotional support and encouragement. In one moving scene, a friend visits Gifford in the hospital, bringing him a care package filled with his favorite snacks and books. The moment serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is still hope and light to be found.
Overall, "OCRM Beni's Breakdown 07.30.18" is a visceral and deeply personal portrayal of one man's struggle with mental illness. It sheds light on an often stigmatized and misunderstood topic in a way that is both authentic and accessible. While the subject matter may be difficult for some viewers to watch, the film ultimately offers a message of resilience and hope, showcasing the human capacity for healing and growth.
