David and Lisa

David and Lisa, released in 1962, is a poignant drama directed by Frank Perry that sheds light on the complexities of mental illness and the power of human connection. The film tells the story of David Clemens, a teenager plagued by a debilitating phobia – a fear that if he comes into physical contact with another person, he will die. David's mother, overbearing and anxious to see her son recover from his affliction, places him in a home for mentally disturbed young people. However, David finds it challenging to connect with the other patients and his psychiatrist, Dr. Anthony Schnitzler, portrayed by Jan Carewe. The young man's fear has become a self-fulfilling prophecy, making it hard for him to form meaningful relationships. As David navigates this unfamiliar environment, he gradually develops an interest in a fellow patient, 15-year-old Lisa Nelson. Played by Keir Dullea's sister-in-law Janet Margolin and then by actress Janet Margolin, Lisa suffers from multiple personalities, each with their distinct characteristics. She has a mute persona, a shy and introverted personality, and another who can only speak in rhymes. David's fascination with Lisa is evident, but he finds it difficult to approach her, given his phobia. However, as the story unfolds, he begins to open up to Lisa, and the two form a bond. Lisa's condition fascinates David, and he becomes increasingly drawn to her unique personalities. Despite the risk of physical contact, David starts to engage with Lisa, slowly breaking free from his self-imposed isolation. As their relationship deepens, Lisa's multiple personalities grow more prominent, and David finds himself drawn to each one. He begins to see Lisa not just as a patient, but as an individual with her own strengths and complexities. Through their interactions, David learns to confront his fears and starts to accept the possibility of human connection. One of Lisa's personalities, known as the 'rhyming girl,' speaks in intricate and beautiful verse. Her words become a source of comfort for David, and he finds solace in her rhymes. Meanwhile, the mute persona adds a sense of mystery to Lisa's character, and David becomes determined to understand and connect with her. The film's portrayal of mental illness is groundbreaking, as it humanizes patients and highlights the complexity of their conditions. David and Lisa are not mere caricatures, but multidimensional characters with their own struggles and triumphs. The film avoids sensationalizing their illnesses, instead opting for a nuanced and realistic approach. As David and Lisa's relationship progresses, they face numerous challenges. They must confront the societal stigma surrounding mental illness and the institutional constraints that seek to contain them. However, their bond becomes a source of strength for both characters, and they find the courage to challenge the limitations placed upon them. The film's climax features a poignant and powerful scene where David and Lisa share a moment of physical contact. The outcome is far from the fatal consequence that David had feared, and the audience is left with a sense of hope and redemption. David and Lisa ends on a hopeful note, with David finally beginning to confront his fears and accept the possibility of human connection. The film's message is clear – that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for healing and growth. Directed by Frank Perry, this cinematic masterpiece has stood the test of time, offering a powerful and poignant portrayal of mental illness and the human spirit.