I Lived On Parker Avenue

I Lived on Parker Avenue is a profound, thought-provoking documentary that spans not just across states but also human emotions, deftly exploring themes such as birth, adolescence, identity, and most importantly, adoption. Released in 2017, the film stars David Scotton as himself, lending an authentic touch to the narrative that intrinsically showcases the numerous aspects of an adoptee's life. His biological mother, Melissa Coles, and adoptive parents, Susan and Jimmy Scotton, also form the core of the planned-unplanned narrative that orbits around David's journey of self-discovery.

The film opens with a journey; David, a young law student, journies from his home in Louisiana to visit his biological parents in Indiana. This trip symbolizes a brave and tumultuous leap smashing the barriers of the unknown past. The Scotton family - a beacon of love, compassion and acceptance - has wholeheartedly raised David, providing him with a stable and nurturing environment. His father, Jimmy Scotton, and his mother, Susan Scotton, have always been transparent about his adoption, making sure he grew up respecting and acknowledging his roots. Yet, what pulls David towards the unknown is his quest for identity, leading him to embark on this moving expedition to his past.

As David's story unfolds, the audience is gradually introduced to Melissa Coles, David's birth mother. Melissa Coles credibly paints a vivid and poignant picture of her past, bringing forth the stark realities of unwanted pregnancies. Manipulated by circumstances and devoid of support, she was expected to terminate her pregnancy at an abortion clinic. She represents countless women who are often trapped and misled due to unawareness and societal pressures. However, in a rare display of courage and resilience, she stepped back from the precipice and chose adoption for her unborn son. This transformative flashback forms the backbone of the movie, underlining the quintessential choice between life and abortion.

The documentary silently showcases the critical role of adoption agencies, emphasizing the systemic aspect of adoption. The preparatory processes, the home studies, the anxiety of the waiting period, and the joy of becoming parents – all these stages are subtly depicted, making the audience understand the complexities of adoption without overtly describing them. This also serves to highlight the magnitude of the impact that one brave choice can have on multiple lives, changing their destiny forever.

The film will bring you face to face with the bittersweet emotions of reunions. It sheds light on how adoption is not an event, but a lifelong process that perpetually affects everyone involved - from the biological parents and the adoptive parents to the adopted child. David’s quest to meet his birth parents is not solely driven by curiosity, but also by gratitude. His life represents a perfect amalgamation of love, grace, and sacrifice – right from his birth mother who chose life for him, to his adoptive parents who unconditionally embraced him.

I Lived on Parker Avenue masterfully delves into complex issues, including the debate surrounding abortion rights and relationships' complex dynamics in the context of adoption. It brings life to the old adage, love knows no bounds, while also appreciating the duality of human nature and experience - pain and happiness, loss and gain, abandonment and acceptance.

In essence, I Lived on Parker Avenue is far more than a film; it’s a testament to the force of love, the interconnectedness of human lives, and the power of choices. It's an account of incredible courage at dire times. It’s a celebration of life and its various shades. Regardless of whether you have personal ties to adoption or not, this movie will leave you contemplating the impact of every choice, pondering the weight of every decision, and appreciating the various forms love can take in one's life. It’s a must-watch for not just those interested in the adoption narrative, but all those appreciative of human relationships, love, and the bounties of life.