A House Made of Splinters

Originally premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival in the World Cinema Documentary Competition Selection.

"A House Made of Splinters" examines the children and staff in a special kind of home: an institution for children who have been removed from their homes while awaiting court custody decisions. This documentary is pretty brutal and touching. The exploitation of children in the institution was well presented as the documentary focuses on how the children are being effected and their life isn't easy.

The camerawork and presentation is very well done and the soundtrack fits properly to the film's tone. Each children that is explored give interesting discussions about themselves, their families and sometimes horrifying confessions of what their parents are like and what they had seen through their eyes. The documentary isn't entirely depressing with some nice wholesome moments where we witness the children experience happiness, but the overall lore is pretty depressing. There are some pacing issues halfway in the film and some of the music is a bit cheesy but for the most part, it was effective.

For someone who has young relatives, this documentary was pretty tough to watch sometimes. But it's very important to be seen. I'd recommend it.

Rating: B+