Emily Parker reviews the documentary about L'Arche.

Jean Vanier

Summer in the Forest is a documentary, (in both French and English with subtitles), about a community of adults who live at L'Arche.

L'Arche isn't your normal village as it's a community specifically for those with intellectual disabilities near Paris. It's a safe environment that they can call home and totally unlike the violent asylums some used to live in until the 1960s. Jean Vanier took a stand and secured their release, which changed the system and future for many individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Vanier encourages you to discover what it is to be human, to be foolish and to be happy. You will see friendships and love like no other, as you get welcomed into the lives of some of the residents who will make you both laugh and cry. Your perceptions will be challenged in a new way, as you get a glimpse into this unique community.

This is not the first documentary film directed by Randall Wright and his experience is evident in how beautifully and sensitively it's shot. Wright brings the lives of the residents of L'Arche to life in an authentic way, reflecting what real life is like for them.

Patrick And Andre Chilling Out At Le Val Fleuri

The work of L'Arche is an important story to tell, as Western culture is the better for the pioneering work of Vanier. Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury commented, "I am delighted to see the story of Jean Vanier's inspired work being shared in film. The work of Jean Vanier has reshaped attitudes to those with learning difficulties, and that reshaping has overflowed into a deeper appreciation of what we share in being human, and how those who imagine themselves to be strong are taught by those whom many consider to be weak."

The acceptance of learning difficulties in the UK has come a long way and L'Arche is testament to what it means to change mind-sets and show how everyone is entitled to love, a life well lived and acceptance for being who you are. This film will inspire you to be a pioneer and to think about how you can make a difference to other people's lives whatever their circumstances. The outcome from saying 'yes', despite the cost, is rewarding beyond what can be imagined.

David Surmaire Cycling To Work

L'Arche now has 151 communities in 37 countries, including the UK, and to this day is continuing to grow. Vanier has also authored classic books on the subject, won international awards, such as the Templeton prize, and very quietly a revolution has been born.

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