There's a new documentary film recently out in theaters simply titled, "Buck", about real life "horse whisperer", Buck Brannaman, who survives a violent childhood and finds success using non-violent methods helping horses with people problems. We read a fascinating piece in today's Huffington Post, that discusses the film from the perspective of a mental health professional, Lloyd I. Sederer, MD, the current medical director for the New York State Office of Mental Health. This article's title, Buck: No Horsing Around, belies the intelligence and intensity of Dr. Sederer's take on the film, and the wide-ranging impact of the film's message.
Photo of Mr. Brannaman courtesy of The Huffington Post
As Dr. Sederer so eloquently states, "What makes this film so extraordinary is not just how amazing a figure Buck is, but the way the narrative illustrates how violence can be mastered." Whether it's violence and abuse perpetrated by humans on humans, or by humans on other animals, it doesn't appear like we, at least as a society, have mastered this often cyclical and devastating problem. But we are struck by how individuals can make such fundamental changes in their lives, and by doing so, serve as role models for many others. And as we've said before, one small decision by one person can make a bold statement-like when we choose to adopt a dog from the shelter rather than purchase from a chain pet store, we're breaking a cycle of abuse-decreasing demand for a "product" born of often violent and abusive practices.
Here's another link to an interview with the subject of the film, Buck Brannaman: www.huffingtonpost.com/zorianna-kit/star-of-buck-speaks-out-a_b_867260.html
We'd love to hear your thoughts on these articles and whether you've seen the movie. Is it on your "must-see" list?
As Dr. Sederer so eloquently states, "What makes this film so extraordinary is not just how amazing a figure Buck is, but the way the narrative illustrates how violence can be mastered." Whether it's violence and abuse perpetrated by humans on humans, or by humans on other animals, it doesn't appear like we, at least as a society, have mastered this often cyclical and devastating problem. But we are struck by how individuals can make such fundamental changes in their lives, and by doing so, serve as role models for many others. And as we've said before, one small decision by one person can make a bold statement-like when we choose to adopt a dog from the shelter rather than purchase from a chain pet store, we're breaking a cycle of abuse-decreasing demand for a "product" born of often violent and abusive practices.
Here's another link to an interview with the subject of the film, Buck Brannaman: www.huffingtonpost.com/zorianna-kit/star-of-buck-speaks-out-a_b_867260.html
We'd love to hear your thoughts on these articles and whether you've seen the movie. Is it on your "must-see" list?
