Video of the Week:
What’s Wrong with Ecstasy and Other Club Drugs.

From SLJ August 2003

Elaine Black, Gwinnett County Public Library, Lawrenceville, GA -- School Library Journal, 7/9/2003

videocassette. color. 25 min. with tchr’s. guide. Discover Films Video (www.discover-films.com). 2003. $149.

Gr 6-12–Featuring interviews with real teens intercut with footage shot at a rave by undercover DEA agents, this film is one of the better drug awareness videos available. Showing viewers some of club drugs such as ecstasy, ketamine, LSD, and others associated with rave culture, the production highlights the dark side of these drugs. A pulsing electronic soundtrack—another symbol of the rave culture—not only underscores the very real anti-drug message but also will maintain viewer interest. Powerful testimonies from several former teen drug users really make the point of the lethal effects of club drugs. Interviews with drug-free teens make powerful statements. The scenes featuring Katie, who was permanently brain damaged after trying "Special K" (animal tranquilizer ketamine), are especially moving. As she talks to the camera in her slow, garbled speech, "never, never, never, never do Special K" is her message to viewers. An Emergency Medical Toxicologist and a DEA representative advise teens not to use club drugs. This well done video will generate lots of class discussion and might make teens stop and think before trying club drugs.