What Haunts Us

What Haunts Us is a chilling and poignant 2018 American documentary directed and produced by Paige Goldberg Tolmach, a renowned filmmaker known for her ability to dive deep into hushed narratives to bring the truth to the surface. This intense and insightful film brings to light the actions committed years ago that have continued to cast a dark shadow over everyone who was involved. The lead characters include Stuart Coleman, Cherry Daniel, and Eddie Fischer, who each play a critical role in the unfolding of the story.

This isn’t just any tale; it’s an investigation into a narrative hushed for more than forty years. The film sets out to unveil the tragic events that occurred at the prestigious Porter-Gaud School in Charleston, South Carolina, where Tolmach herself was a student. The film does a remarkable job of unearthing the fact that even though the school is renowned for its outstanding academic record, an appalling secret was brewing underneath its pristine surface.

As the plot unfolds, the documentary focuses on Eddie Fischer, a much-beloved teacher and coach. What was initially concealed as a personal connection with the students quickly turns into an alarming revelation, creating an uncomfortably real and grim view of the lasting impact of sexual abuse in a closed institutional setting. This hauntingly true story explores the role of Eddie Fischer and the consequences of his actions on his former students.

Simultaneously, the performances of Stuart Coleman and Cherry Daniel bring a human side to the disturbing narrative, adding a layer of complexity and depth to the film. Their portrayals stand as an ode to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of grave injustice.

What Haunts Us thoroughly investigates the lives of six of Fischer's students who committed suicide later in their lives, bringing attention to the long-term impact of unresolved trauma and the crippling silence that surrounds victims of sexual abuse. The film highlights how the suffering of the victims was not only overlooked but stifly hushed, to maintain the esteemed reputation of the institution.

Interestingly, the director chooses to interweave her personal life with the narrative, giving the audience a glimpse of her guilt and regret for not recognizing the signs earlier in her classmates. Yet Tolmach manages to maintain a critical eye, holding the system, the institution, and the community accountable for failing to provide a safe and secure environment for the students.

The premise of What Haunts Us is heavily based on facts and evidential information retrieved through meticulous research. The portrayal of real-time reactions when former students, parents, and community members discover the horrific crimes committed adds to the unsettling environment of the film. It prompts viewers to question and consider how much trust one places blindly in institutions, and that everyone could be a bystander if they choose to ignore the signs.

What Haunts Us serves as a wake-up call and urges viewers to break the silence surrounding child abuse, highlighting that such crimes do not discriminate based on the school’s reputation. Rather than letting it continue to haunt them, the film rallies for the victims and communities globally to take a solid stance against such heinous acts.

The film’s cinematography enhances the narrative's tension by using tight frames and disturbingly quiet scenes that mirrors the oppression and stifled voices of the victims. The editing is meticulous, engaging the audience in the stark reality of the cover-up, while the sound design enhances the suspenseful atmosphere.

Overall, What Haunts Us makes a compelling case about a neglected societal issue, urging the audience to speak up and act against such abominable offenses. This isn’t just a film you watch; it’s an experience that provokes thought, incites emotion and fosters a sense of responsibility. It’s a heart-wrenching exploration of the impact of silence and the devastating effects of unchecked abuse within a trusted institution. This movie not only entertains but also educates, demanding that such culpable silence be broken to protect our younger generations. So, arm yourself with courage and take a step into the darkness of the past that seeks justice. Do watch What Haunts Us: it is a haunting journey worth taking.