Peter And The Angels's video: Marvin s Gift - A film to help children with traumas

The film, directed by Peter Zhmutski is based on a book by John & Payton Otto’s – Marvin’s Shining Star. John Otto, a Norman veterinarian and the executive director of Friends For Folks conceptualized the stage and the film version of “Marvin’s Shining Star.” Inspired by the heartwarming true story of a man and a dog, Marvin’s Gift serves as a therapeutic instrument to help troubled children open up for counseling and mend their hidden traumas. Some of those children come from broken homes, others have been abused and have incarcerated parents. They need help! The film promotes antibullying, compassion, education, discipline, animal love, hope and more. Zhmutski wrote the screenplay with his 10-year-old daughter. He and Julia uncovered and discussed the issues her classmates deal with and how they cope with problems and bullying. Children counselors and psychologists have also contributed their knowledge to the production. To produce Marvin’s Gift, Otto and Zhmutski collaborated with Tony award-winner Max Weitzenhoffer, Academy Award winning producer Gray Frederickson and renowned magician Rob Lake. Marvin’s Gift is about a struggling, on the edge 11-year old boy Logan. One night Logan breaks his 9-year old sister’s favorite toy. In fear and anger he decides to run away in the middle of the night. As he opens the window, he is stopped by a mysterious man, Marvin. It is hard to say whether Marvin is a person or an angel. Using his special powers, Marvin takes the siblings back in time. He shares the story of his life, the tough choices that led him to prison, and how an unusual friend appeared to Marvin helping him to change his heart. This is when it is revealed that Logan’s behavior is a result of a trauma. Logan’s dad has been incarcerated since he and Emma were toddlers. Marvin guides both children to understand that there are many people who care and want to help them.