BEHIND CLOSED DOORS: THROUGH THE EYES OF THE CHILD
“This bleak if important film shines a light into one of the darker corners of British society”
“Anna Hall's harrowing documentary about domestic violence is arguably the most powerful piece of programming this week." - The Observer
Shot over the course of three years, and working with local charities in Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire County Council and Thames Valley Police, the film has unprecedented access to children who have all witnessed or experienced domestic violence, meeting senior social workers to help understand how children are affected by domestic abuse.
RUNTIME:
59 minutes
EDITOR:
Enda Mullen
DIRECTOR:
Anna Hall
PRODUCER:
Anna Hall
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:
Brian Woods
RELEASED:
2019
RECEPTION
"Anna Hall's harrowing documentary about domestic violence is arguably the most powerful piece of programming this week."
The Observer
"Anna Hall's powerful film, made over two years, hears from these remarkably brave children as she explores the devastating effects of living in a violent home."
Radio Times
"One in five children in the UK has witnessed or experienced domestic abuse. This documentary on the subject is, as you would expect, a tough watch, but if it spreads awareness then it will have done its job."
The Guardian
"Anna Hall's excellent documentary follows four children exposed to domestic violence, including Kirstie, whose mother was murdered by her partner."
Sunday Times
"Heartbreaking and horrifying to hear what Ollie, 7, has been privy to, but he discusses what his mum suffered in a pragmatic manner. "It makes children become adults far too early."
The Times
"In the programme, which focuses on the stories of four kids affected by domestic violence against their parents, Kirstie is seen telling the police that her stepdad once made her stand with her face to the wall all night – because she had left an apple in her bag."
The Sun
"BBC Two's harrowing documentary Behind Closed Doors: Through the Eyes of the Child has been celebrated for its new approach to some troubling material."
Digital Spy ★★★★
"Anna Hall’s film was as sensitive as you would hope."
iNews
"This bleak if important film shines a light into one of the darker corners of British society."
Daily Mail
"By no means an easy thing to watch, and nor should it be. But the four children featured are astonishing."
Alison Graham
"Kirstie, now 14, revealed the horrific abuse at the hands of her stepfather on the upcoming BBC2 documentary, Behind Closed Doors."
Daily Mail Online
"Kirstie is telling her story in a moving follow-up, Behind Closed Doors: Through the Eyes of the Child on BBC2."
The Mirror
AWARDS
RTS YORKSHIRE 2019 Production Excellence, Winner
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
If you think that a child is in immediate danger please dial 999. Alternatively please contact your local authority social care department, or the NSPCC listed below.
If you are a child who needs help, please call Childline on:
0800 11 11 (Open 24 hours)
Samaritans
116123
Victim Support
0808 168 9111
Text Shout on 85258 for 24hr support