Written by Megan Hohl. Photo courtesy of IMDb.
“Sam Now” is a documentary centered around the Harkness family, exploring the effects of familial trauma.
When Sam Harkness was only a freshman in high school when their mother, Jois Harkness, suddenly disappeared. His brother, Reed Harkness, records him for over 25 years, documenting Sam’s journey to reconnect with their mother. There was no explanation as to why Jois left him and his family, he only knew that she was alive and wanted to cut all contact with them.
This documentary expertly weaved together interviews of the Harkness family members. The interviews explored the impact that Jois’ decision had on the family, displaying poignancy and vulnerability. Every family member had their own trouble coping with this event which stirred the hearts of the crowd. It is clear that this documentary was treated with love and care, as each portion of the film adds to the narrative of familial trauma and the effects events such as these had on a developing child.
The interviews with Jois were especially insightful. She recounted her early childhood in Japan, being sent to an orphanage by her birthmother, and then her adoption by a couple in the United States. She noted the abuse she experienced in this household and spoke about her adoptive parents’ threats of being sent back to the orphanage if she behaved badly. Jois’ trauma was passed along to her sons, which was tragically clear and made this film immensely heartbreaking.
Despite the tear-jerking events that occur in this film, it was a heartwarming piece. It offers viewers hope for the future, despite what may have happened in the past. “Sam Now” took care to ensure that its audience would leave the film with optimism for themselves and others.
