Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Featured In Groundbreaking Film "Machine Man"

Online, January 17, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Filmmaker Kellie Madison and Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz appeared on Eye on Entertainment in December 2010 to promote "Machine Man", a feature film dealing with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The first of its kind, this groundbreaking project highlights a commonly stigmatized disorder affecting such notable figures as Donald Trump, Howie Mandel and Howard Stern. These successful men, along with millions of others around the globe, suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, a neurobiological anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and a need to perform repetitive and ritualistic behaviors (compulsions). One in 50 adults currently battle with obsessive and compulsive behavior. One in 25 has dealt with the disorder at some point in their lives. To see the EOE interview, go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=292E4NIE1Dg

"Machine Man", written by Madison, is a narrative film that illuminates the debilitating struggle that millions of people who suffer from OCD go through on a daily basis. "Machine Man," chronicles the spirited tale of an average man, who struggles with an extraordinary problem, facing his most debilitating fear in order to save the woman he loves.

What sets this film apart is twofold. First, it aims to do what "Rain Man" and "Children of a Lesser God" did for autism and the hearing impaired - start a dialogue around a closeted mental health issue through a mainstream vehicle like film. Second, it is looking for funding through a grassroots campaign that not only mobilizes the OCD community into action, but also brings the general public into the fold.

Madison is raising the entire $2,000,000 budget of the film through contributions at www.MachineManTheMovie.com. The website, however, is far more than just a movie site. In fact, it is first and foremost a hub for OCD awareness, social networking, discussion, and above all, artistic expression.

"People come to this site and immediately they see user-generated art, music, media of all kinds, all centered around OCD, and all brought to us by our audience. It's really interactive. People come here from all walks of life and they see this sudden oasis of OCD discourse and discussion that allows them to express themselves in any number of creative ways. This is really about the community. The film is simply another media vehicle that helps us spread the message" says Madison.

For those interested in more information, Madison is making herself available at: [email protected].

Far too often, people with OCD suffer in silence because of the shame and stigma associated with this disorder. Some don't even recognize what they're suffering from and are terrified to leave their homes. To date, a film that addresses the daily debilitating fears associated with OCD has yet to be produced. Film is one of the most powerful mediums for conveying messages to audiences around the world. A feature like "Machine Man" can and will create empathy and awareness for those suffering with OCD. This will ultimately affect change by helping people recognize their disorder and subsequently seek proper treatment.

About Kellie Madison
Kellie Madison has produces award winning films including "Bathtub Picnic," and is connected with Clark Peterson, the producer of the Oscar Winning film "Monster" to produce her latest completed project, the feature film "Dear Mr. Gacy," starring William Forsythe. The movie was based on a New York Times Best Selling book entitled, "The Last Victim" by Jason Moss and Jeffrey Kottler about Jason's real-life chilling encounter with infamous serial killer John Wayne Gacy. Since then Kellie has been writing, producing and developing several feature length projects including the high concept comedies, "The Lineup" and "The Abolition of Sex," a suspense thriller called, "Windows," "Box Castle," a drama and a science fiction feature entitled, "Under." Kellie's thrilled to be embarking on the journey of making, "Machine Man" a film about a man struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Kellie's passion is to tell stories that inspire, entertain and move people. For more information, contact: Jasmine Bina of JB Communication at (714) 328-3866 or
[email protected]

About Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz
Dr. Jeffrey M. Schwartz is a research psychiatrist at the School of Medicine at the University of California at Los Angeles and one of the world's leading experts in neuroplasticity. Decades ago, he began to study the philosophy of conscious awareness, the idea that the actions of the mind have an effect on the workings of the brain. Dr. Schwartz's breakthrough work in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) provided the hard evidence that the mind can control the brain's chemistry. He has lectured extensively to both professional and lay audiences in the US, Europe, and Asia. His books include The Mind and the Brain: Neuroplasticity and the Power of Mental Force and the bestseller Brain Lock: Free Yourself from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, the seminal book on OCD. His latest book, You Are Not Your Brain: The 4-Step Solution for Ending Destructive Behavior, Changing Bad Habits, and Taking Control of Your Life, co-authored with Rebecca Gladding, is due in 2011. Visit: www.jeffreymschwartz.com