Home > Television: Past Productions

A
Place
in
the
World

a one-hour tv documentary

{1996}

This film reveals a special place where people with intellectual and physical disabilities find a community of acceptance and are given the tools and freedom to reach their full potential.

Producer/director Robert Lang introduces us to Martin Langlois, a severely autistic young man, on his way to his new home at "Maison Emmanuel" located in the Laurentians, north of Montreal.

This is the first time that Martin will be living away from his parents. They are concerned, but they know the time has come to let Martin go.

One of a worldwide network of similar Camphill centres, Maison Emmanuel creates a nurturing environment, providing activities and therapies that help individuals like Martin realize their full potential.

We follow Martin's gradual integration into the community and meet the residents who work alongside staff and volunteers to maintain a busy household and build caring and stable relationships.

Two months after his arrival, Martin's parents come to take part in preparing the Sunday meal. Martin has adjusted well. As he finds a new place in the world, our perceptions of people with mental disabilities are irrevocably changed.