Moon in the 12th House

This intimate documentary chronicles a year in the life of the Smukler family as they navigate the complexities of mental health and familial bonds. The film delves into the challenges faced by the family's matriarch, Rani, as she grapples with bipolar disorder. Through home videos and candid interviews, the narrative explores the impact of her condition on her relationships with her husband and children, particularly her son Matt, the film's director.

Moon in the 12th House was met with a generally positive reception, lauded for its raw honesty and emotional depth in tackling difficult subject matter. Critics praised the Smukler family's courage in sharing their personal struggles, highlighting the film's sensitive portrayal of mental illness and its profound effects on family dynamics. While some found the pacing occasionally slow, the overall consensus pointed to a moving and insightful viewing experience that fostered empathy and understanding.

• Praised for its unflinching honesty and emotional resonance.

• Appreciated for its sensitive and empathetic portrayal of mental illness within a family context.

• Felt by some to be a bit slow-paced, but ultimately a powerful and moving documentary.

Google audience: Viewers found the documentary to be incredibly moving and eye-opening, commending the Smukler family for their vulnerability. Many appreciated the film's ability to shed light on the realities of living with bipolar disorder and its impact on loved ones, finding it relatable and inspiring.

Director Matt Smukler began filming his family long before he intended to make a documentary, initially capturing moments as a personal project to better understand his mother's experiences.