Unrest (2017 film)

Unrest is a 2017 documentary film directed by Jennifer Brea. The film explores the personal and social impact of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), a debilitating illness that affects millions of people worldwide. Unrest provides an intimate look into the lives of those affected by the condition, highlighting the challenges they face in seeking recognition and treatment.

Synopsis

Poster for Unrest (2017)

Unrest begins with Jennifer Brea, a Harvard PhD student, who is struck down by a mysterious illness that leaves her bedridden. As she navigates the medical system, she discovers that she is not alone. The film documents her journey to understand ME/CFS, a condition that is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed.

Through a combination of personal video diaries, interviews, and footage from around the world, Unrest paints a vivid picture of the daily struggles faced by those with ME/CFS. The film features stories from patients in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Denmark, among other countries, showcasing the global nature of the illness.

Production

Jennifer Brea began filming Unrest after experiencing the symptoms of ME/CFS herself. Using a camera from her bed, she started documenting her own experiences and reaching out to others with the condition. The film was produced by Sundance Institute and received support from various organizations dedicated to raising awareness about ME/CFS.

Themes

Unrest addresses several key themes, including the invisibility of chronic illness, the challenges of living with a misunderstood condition, and the fight for recognition and research funding. The film also explores the emotional and psychological impact of ME/CFS on patients and their families.

Reception

Unrest premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2017, where it received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and emotional depth. The film has been praised for bringing much-needed attention to ME/CFS and for its role in advocating for patients' rights.

Impact

Since its release, Unrest has been used as an educational tool to raise awareness about ME/CFS. It has been screened at medical schools, conferences, and advocacy events worldwide. The film has also inspired a broader conversation about the need for increased research and better healthcare for those with chronic illnesses.

Related pages

• Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
• Jennifer Brea
• Sundance Film Festival