Press release: "The ABC's of Eating Disorders"

Wednesday, November 10, 2004

Miami filmmakers announce completion of “The ABC’s of Eating Disorders, a documentary film about eating disorders.

New documentary reveals intimate insight to life with an eating disorder

Miami, Florida-- November 10, 2004. Miami filmmakers Joanna Popper and Arne Zimmermann completed “The ABC’s of Eating Disorders,” a documentary film on eating disorders. Anorexics, bulimics, and compulsive overeaters share their intimate experiences and struggles. The interviews captivate and allow the viewer into the mind of someone with an eating disorder.

Eating disorders are epidemic in America. Dr Marty Lerner, of Milestones in Recovery who was interviewed in the documentary, estimated that 50% of women have eating disorders at some point in their lives, and almost as many men. He also estimated that at any given time 20-30% of the population is suffering from an eating disorder.

Eating disorders have been largely misunderstood. Rather than being about food and weight as popularly thought, eating disorders are classified as a psychological disorder. Susan Kleinman of the Renfrew Center said, “Eating disorders have been misnamed. They really should have been called emotional disorders.” Alexis Todd from the Renfrew Center adds that “they are the deadliest of all psychological disorders.” The mortality rate associated with anorexia nervosa is 12 times higher than the death rate of all causes of death for females 15-24 years old.

This program is new, exciting and different. The viewer sees real people candidly speaking about their eating disorders and experiences. It includes compulsive overeaters, which is often overlooked. The project focuses on mainstream cases of functional people, not just Hollywood stars or people who die. Interviews include a wide variety of people from different backgrounds, genders, ages and ethnic groups. This breadth allows diverse audiences to connect with the program.

Producer Joanna Popper says, “The documentary was made to increase awareness on eating disorders, let people know they’re not alone, and encourage recovery. And, it helps people without eating disorders understand them.” She continues, “As Pro-anorexia internet sites increase, it’s important to have Pro-recovery materials in the public view.”

The Producer, Editor and people who were interviewed in the documentary are available immediately for interviews and happy to talk about all topics.

About the Producer and Zakto Film
The Producer, Joanna Popper, has been an advocate for eating disorder treatment and recovery since seeking her own treatment three years ago. Filmmaker Arne Zimmermann is the Founder of Zakto Film.

For more information or to order the documentary email abc@zakto.com or www.zakto.com/abc. A trailer of the film is on the website. For media information call 305-607-7169.

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