Oscar-Qualifying Documentary Highlights Pediatric Healthcare Crisis

Complicated, an Oscar-qualifying documentary directed by Andrew Abrahams, will screen on December 4, 2025, at the Quad Cinema in New York City. This 85-minute feature delves into the complex issues surrounding pediatric healthcare, highlighting the experiences of families facing misdiagnoses, medical gaslighting, and child-protection overreach.

The film features Camille Schrier, Miss America 2020, who not only stars in the documentary but also has a personal connection to the subject matter through her diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a rare connective tissue disorder. The screening will include a question-and-answer session with Abrahams and various subjects from the film, moderated by Schrier. This intimate discussion aims to shed light on the pressing healthcare issues depicted in the documentary.

Highlighting Systemic Challenges in Pediatric Care

Complicated explores the destructive consequences of systemic gaps in medicine, particularly affecting children and their families. Through a combination of personal stories and expert insights, the documentary exposes failures in mental health diagnosis and the shortcomings of child protection systems. This significant issue not only affects young patients but also burdens healthcare providers and families struggling to navigate the complexities of pediatric care.

Recognized as an official selection at the Slamdance Film Festival and a winner of the Remi Award at the Worldfest-Houston International Film Festival, the film aims to raise awareness and inspire change within the healthcare system. It serves as a crucial resource for healthcare professionals, educators, family law attorneys, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by families dealing with complex medical conditions.

Event Details and Impact

The screening of Complicated is set for December 4 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with doors opening at 6:30 PM. The event will take place at Quad Cinema, located at 34 West 13th Street, New York, NY 10011. Tickets for the special screening can be purchased through the official event page.

Open Eye Pictures, the nonprofit organization behind the film, focuses on creating and distributing educational media that highlights critical social issues. Their storytelling aims to inspire compassion and action, moving audiences to engage with the subject matter on a deeper level. Additionally, the documentary is supported by ElevateRare, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing education and support programs for healthcare providers and medical students addressing the challenges faced by patients with rare diseases.

As the pediatric healthcare crisis continues to affect countless families, Complicated stands as a powerful exposé of a system in need of reform. Through its impactful narrative and expert insights, the film calls for urgent change to improve the lives of young patients and their families.

For media inquiries or interviews, please contact Michael Russell at [email protected] or call +1 310-890-7865.