26 September 2010

Island of Outcasts

                       


Island of Outcasts (1990) Director: Jane Gabriel

"The Greek mental institution of Leros, housed on the island of the same name, has received significant journalistic attention. In September of 1989, the London Observer printed a front page account of the hospital, describing it as a "concentration camp." Following the British report, a barrage of Greek press about the island and institution was ignited. All accounts have discussed aspects of the hospital and its horrific patient conditions: patient neglect, absence of medical personnel (for some 1150 adults there are only two psychiatrists), patients who are kept naked throughout the year, inadequate diet, etc. The film "Island of Outcasts" represents another British endeavor detailing the hospital's conditions. It shatters common images of Greek islands as romantic tourist hideaways with tranquil beaches, crystalline blue waters and convivial natives. Rather, a grim and haunting portrait of the island and its mental institution is conveyed..."