A film that explores the staff, families, and children within the walls of Derian House – A Children’s Hospice, this is Thomas Elliot Griffiths’ documentary The Little Things.
Derian House is a children’s hospice located in Chorley, Lancashire – a small town in north-west England. It provides care and support for seriously ill children and young people, as well as their families. Offering a range of services, including palliative care, respite care, and end-of-life care; the goal is to help these children and their families make the most of the time that they have together.
Thomas Elliot Griffiths’ documentary “The Little Things” offers a poignant and intimate look into the lives of those connected to Derian House. Through heartfelt interviews, stunning visuals, and a powerful score, the film sheds light on the invaluable work done by hospices and the profound impact they have on families. It is easily one of the most moving documentaries that I have ever seen.
With the access he has been given, Griffiths is able to take us into the heart of Derian House, a sanctuary where lives are touched and transformed. Here, we meet the staff, parents, and children who have found a home within its walls. They all have their stories, and each one contains moments of joy, sorrow, and unwavering hope. We witness the radiant smiles of children playing, the tears of parents, and the unwavering dedication of caregivers. Yet, amidst the beauty, we are also confronted with the harsh reality that even love, no matter how strong, cannot, unfortunately, conquer all.
Griffiths’ direction of the documentary is a masterclass as he has an innate ability to navigate sensitive subject matter with both empathy and objectivity. One of his most significant contributions is the ability to challenge stereotypes about hospices. Far from being places of despair and sadness, he depicts Derian House as a welcoming and supportive environment where children can play, laugh, and create lasting memories. The vibrant colours, joyful sounds, and friendly faces that Griffiths fills the screen with paint a picture of a place where hope and happiness coexist with the inevitable challenges of serious illness. Skilfully employing traditional documentary staples like talking heads, photographs, vivid memories and recorded footage, Griffiths creates a deeply personal and intimate portrait of a hugely important service.
The talking heads allow the film to delve into the personal narratives of the families and staff involved with the majority of stories being absolutely heartbreaking. Griffiths’ approach is gentle and respectful, creating a safe space for individuals to share their experiences. His ability to encourage the interviewees to open up and reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings puts the audience in the privileged position of hearing honest answers to some extremely sensitive questions. These moments with parents are particularly moving, their stories of loss, their struggles, and their unwavering love for their children. Every voice, be that of a parent or staff member, is filled with raw emotion and an honesty that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The film also highlights the incredible strength and resilience of the children involved, facing their illnesses with courage and grace. Griffiths has a keen eye for detail, capturing the subtle moments that convey a wealth of emotion and using a visual style that is both intimate and evocative. He captures the beauty and complexity of the human experience, and this makes each revelation, good and bad, hit home that much harder.
“The Little Things” is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that will leave a lasting impression on viewers. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of compassion, support, and love. By shedding light on the invaluable work done by children’s hospices, the film encourages us to appreciate the beauty and fragility of life.
With “The Little Things” director Griffiths and his entire team have created an unforgettable cinematic experience.
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