World Premiere

The mapping of the human genome has truly unlocked the secrets of our physical existence. But as we peer into our past and our future, such advances have become a miraculous gift and a terrible curse rolled into one. Joanna Rudnick—and many women like her—tested positive for a genetic mutation that practically ensures she will develop breast and ovarian cancer.

Now that she knows she has the mutation, she can attempt to circumvent its dire consequences with surgery that will leave her, at age 27, without her breasts or ovaries. Even more troubling is the strong possibility that she will pass on this mutation to any children she may choose to have.

IN THE FAMILY is Joanna’s quest to answer all of these questions as a filmmaker, journalist and an active participant. As she grapples with her own romantic relationship, she crosses the country to understand other women’s approaches to the genetic test and the disconcerting results. She introduces us to the researcher who discovered the existence of the mutation, and she confronts the head of the company that holds the patent to the $3,000 test.

In the end, we are left with an incredibly thorough investigation of the emotions, attitudes, relationships and lives that are affected by this scientific breakthrough. Joanna, meanwhile, is left with a decision that only she can make.

-Deborah L. Jaramillo

Post-screening discussion after the Wednesday, June 18th screening

Moderated by Simon Kilmurry, Executive Director, POV

Panelists:

Barbara Biesecker, Head of Genetic Counseling Program at NIH
Karen Rothenberg, Dean of University of Maryland Law School and a leading expert on health law and public policy
Sharon Terry, Founder of Genetic Alliance, the umbrella coalition of more than 600 disease-specific advocacy organizations