Under Our Skin

Under Our Skin is a compelling and resoundingly persuasive documentary that debuted in 2008. Directed by the exceptionally talented Andy Abrahams Wilson, this film provides an immersive understanding of Lyme disease through real and thought-provoking stories of those affected by it. Although it is not a feature film, it showcases Mandy Hughes, Sean Hughes, and Dana Walsh, people who suffer from Lyme disease, thus crossing over into the realm of cinéma vérité.

The movie's most commendable accomplishment is that it successfully personalizes a complex and often misunderstood medical condition, thus exposing viewers to the immense human suffering provoked by it. The storyline is focused on several patients, their struggles, battles, and triumphs over the disease.

The film delves into the life of Mandy Hughes, a former woman of faith who has come out of a debilitating and immobilizing medical challenge. The film walks you through her journey from diagnosis to recovery, offering an intimate and profoundly moving depiction. Through Mandy's story and optimistic outlook, viewers can find a source of inspiration. She bravely shares her predicament and demonstrations of unyielding faith in the face of adversity.

Sean Hughes tells a more unique story. He is yet another patient battle-hardened through his own trials with Lyme disease. His story incites a broader discussion on the ambiguity in diagnosing the disease and the medical community's disagreement over acceptable treatment methods.

On the other hand, Dana Walsh shares an intimate tale of her own struggle with Lyme disease. Her experience as a professional musician, gaining nationwide recognition, is juxtaposed with her private life as a long-term sufferer of Lyme disease. Her emotional story is a glaring indictment of the superficial glamor of stardom and offers an inspirational tale of resilience.

Under Our Skin employs a nonlinear narrative structure, moving back and forth between different stories. This unique mode of storytelling contributes to its breadth and depth, producing a dialogic exchange of experiences rather than a singular, homogenous portrayal of Lyme disease.

As a documentary, the film employs a variety of effective aesthetic techniques to augment its message. The judicious use of close-up shots, for instance, serves to humanize individuals affected by Lyme disease. Meanwhile, interviews with medical experts and researchers provide a factual and scientific basis that helps viewers to understand this illness better.

The movie doesn't shy away from pointing out the controversial aspects surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease. It gives plenty of screentime to medical professionals, researchers, science writers, Lyme disease patients, caregivers, and advocates, giving a wholesome view of the whole picture. By doing so, Under Our Skin portrays this raging health crisis in a broader, more holistic context.

Abrahams Wilson also uncovers the heated debates and controversies within the medical community over Lyme disease's recognition, diagnosis, and treatment. We see the heartbreak the patients face—doubt, frustration, anger, and despair; it's all there, raw and potent.

This film not only delves into the personal stories of people living with Lyme disease but also examines the politics surrounding the illness. It touches on issues such as tick-borne diseases, manipulation of blood tests, lack of diagnostic tools, and heated public health debates. It delves into the underlying issues surrounding the vague definition and diagnostic criteria for Lyme disease, as well as the controversy over its prevalence and the effectiveness of various treatments.

In essence, Under Our Skin is more than a simple documentary on a misunderstood disease. Through heart-rending personal stories and expert opinion, the film offers insight into the Lyme disease crisis. It is an enlightening and emotional examination of a health issue that is too easily dismissed or misunderstood. Together, Mandy, Sean, Dana, and Abrahams Wilson create a compelling narrative that is as much a call to action as it is an elucidating exposé on the true impact of Lyme disease on people's lives. It marks an important step towards better understanding, diagnosing, and treating this unfortunately common condition. In the end, this film achieves its goal, bringing the often overlooked problem of Lyme disease "under our skin", making us care about it and those who have to live with it every day.