You have probably seen at least one of those stereotypical stories about a family in which the child wants to grow up and be a musician (or artist in general), and the parents despair, saying, "Why can't you be a doctor or an engineer, or something useful?" But what they forget is that though music and art may not directly further the human race, it does indirectly: it keeps the human race alive. It makes us happy. It connects with our souls, which rejuvenates us. Music is an instinct, a motivator, a passion.
This is the message behind Michael Rossato-Bennett's documentary, ALIVE INSIDE. He has been following a non-profit organization called Music & Memory, which goes around the country bringing iPods to patients who suffer from Alzheimer's, dementia, and a number of other health problems. Dan Cohen, the founder of M&M, is a firm believer in music, and believes that it can help people who suffer from memory loss or isolation, enabling them to reconnect with their past and, ultimately, themselves. And the effects of his work are wonderful to see: people who previously showed no signs of response, unable to remember their family or do anything but stare at the floor, listen to music on these devices and immediately come back to life, engaging people in conversation and getting that light back in their eyes.
ALIVE INSIDE shows the troubles that Cohen has had in getting medical professionals to jump on board, which speaks volumes about the crippling structure of the healthcare system... If it's not medicine, not many people are willing to spend money on it, even if it will help their patients.
Though the organization of this documentary is a bit scattered at times, its message is simple and universal; it cuts straight to the heart, pulling on your heartstrings for the entirety of its 78 minutes. There is a very good chance you will leave the theater with tears in your eyes.
I highly recommend coming to see this film... It is very engaging, and it is a great reminder that sometimes what we need, more than any medicine, is to be shown life. Or, in the case of ALIVE INSIDE, to hear it.
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