In the Land of the Deaf
In the Land of the Deaf (French title Le Pays Des Sourds) is a French documentary created and produced by Nicolas Philibert in 1992.<ref name="frdiplomatie">France Diplomatie: [http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/france-priorities_1/documentary_2312/non-commercial-distribution_2313/documentaries_5315/5-films-by-nicolas-philibert_3149/in-the-land-of-the-deaf_3164/index.html In the Land of the Deaf] .</ref> The film is presented French Sign Language (FSL) and French, with English subtitles and closed captions. Philibert uses sparse dialogue in creating an unsentimental, non-manipulative work which allows its subjects to communicate their feelings about the richness of life despite hearing problems. Prior to its initial theatrical release, this excursion into the unique world of Deaf communities in France was featured in international film festivals. In its subsequent broadcast debut in the United States, the film was honored with a Peabody Award for excellence. Synopsis This film focuses on the interrelationships between Deaf culture and language in France. Its overview encompasses a broad range of perspectives, contrasting the stories of a family who has been deaf and thriving for five generations with the story of a woman whose deafness was misunderstood, causing her to be confined for a time in an asylum for the insane. The documentary features d/Deaf and hard of hearing people of all ages and from all walks of life. With their profound