THIN (2006)
THIN, directed by Lauren Greenfield and distributed by HBO, is a poignant cinéma vérité documentary that delves into the lives of women battling eating disorders. Filmed at The Renfrew Center of Florida in Coconut Creek—a residential facility specializing in the treatment of eating disorders—the documentary provides an unfiltered look at the struggles, triumphs, and complexities faced by its residents.
The Setting
The Renfrew Center, a 40-bed facility, becomes the backdrop for this raw exploration. Here, women grapple with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and other eating disorders. The film captures their daily routines, therapy sessions, and interpersonal dynamics. It’s a place where vulnerability meets structure, where healing is both elusive and essential.
The Participants
THIN introduces us to several main participants:
- Shelly Guillory: A 25-year-old psychiatric nurse, Shelly enters Renfrew with a surgically implanted PEG feeding tube. Anorexic for six years and tube-fed for five, she weighs a mere 84.3 pounds. Her volatile mood swings and struggles with food theft and accusations of purging reveal the complexities of her journey.
- Polly Ann Williams: Polly has been at Renfrew for nine weeks. Her story unfolds as she grapples with the demons of her disorder. We witness her battles, her moments of strength, and her vulnerability.
The Struggle for Recovery
THIN doesn’t romanticize eating disorders. Instead, it lays bare the pain, the desperation, and the relentless pursuit of recovery. We witness the toll on physical health, the emotional rollercoaster, and the fragile hope that keeps these women going. The film doesn’t shy away from the darkness; it invites us to confront it head-on.
The Trust of the Participants
Lauren Greenfield gained the trust of the Renfrew residents, allowing her to capture their lives authentically. Living at the center for six months, she and director of photography Amanda Micheli had unrestricted access. They filmed staff meetings, therapy sessions, mealtimes, and daily weigh-ins. The result is an intimate portrayal of resilience and vulnerability.
The Legacy
THIN premiered at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival before reaching a wider audience on HBO in 2006. Its impact reverberates beyond the screen. By shedding light on eating disorders, it encourages empathy, understanding, and compassion. The film reminds us that healing is a complex journey—one that requires more than just physical nourishment.
In summary, THIN is not just a documentary; it’s a mirror reflecting our shared struggles, our resilience, and our capacity for transformation.
