Moored on the Seine in Paris, the barge Adamant appears ordinary but it’s been the site of an innovative mental healthcare approach since 2010. This is the focus of the “On the Adamant” documentary by Nicolas Philibert, which took home the top award at the 2023 Berlin International Film Festival.
The Adamant operates as a floating day center where psychiatric patients engage in art therapy, including painting, dance, and film club activities. Staff members oversee and gently encourage patients to open up about their feelings through their creative expressions. For those who prefer non-participation, the barge offers a judgement-free community where they can interact with others at their own pace.
Philibert’s filming approach is as non-intrusive as the therapy program itself, blurring the line between patients and staff, and capturing their extraordinary moments. Early in the film, a patient sings "La Bombe Humaine," expressing his profound emotions through the performance. Another segment sees a female patient advocate for conducting a weekly dance class, while others share their personal stories with unflinching honesty.
The documentary highlights each individual's humanity beyond their mental illness, showcasing raw emotions and experiences without appearing exploitative. One remarkable case is Frederic, who first seems like a caregiver but later reveals his belief that he is the reincarnation of Vincent Van Gogh and Wim Wender's inspiration for the film "Paris, Texas."
Despite Philibert’s objective direction, the film would benefit from delving deeper into the inception and objectives of the Adamant program. Yet, “On the Adamant'' is a potent testament to the role of empathy in mental health treatment and raises hopes for more such programs in the future.
