Torn Apart: Separated at the Border

Torn Apart: Separated at the Border

2019 · 39 min · ★ 6.3 · Documentary

Two mothers who were each separated from their children in the United States for months after fleeing from danger in their homelands to seek asylum work with pro-bono lawyers and volunteers to reunite with their kids who have been placed thousands of miles away from them with little access to communication.

Directed by Ellen Goosenberg Kent

Your Rating

Where to Watch

Streaming

HBO Max

Make it a double feature

1h 55m together

Torn Apart: Separated at the Border

Afghan Dreamers

Both from Ellen Goosenberg Kent.

More from Ellen Goosenberg KentSee all →

Afghan DreamersAfghan Dreamers · 2022
Afghan Dreamers
★ 10.02022
MovieDocumentary
An all-girls’ robotics team in Afghanistan risks it all to prove that it can compete against anyone in the world, and demonstrates that girls can become scientists and engineers instead of teenage brides.
Going, Going, Almost Gone! Animals in DangerGoing, Going, Almost Gone! Animals in Danger · 1995
Going, Going, Almost Gone! Animals in Danger
★ 8.71995
MovieDocumentary
An urgent plea to protect creatures from man's insensitivity and greed. The program offers clear explanations of why the survival of sea turtles, humpbacked whales, tiger, bears and other threatened animals is essential to the balance of nature.
Brett Killed Mom: A Sister's DiaryBrett Killed Mom: A Sister's Diary · 1996
Brett Killed Mom: A Sister's Diary
★ 8.01996
MovieDocumentary
This is a documentary made by the sister of a boy who killed his mother. Their mother quite possibly suffered from undiagnosed OCD. She simply could not tolerate anything less than absolute perfection. Her entire family has and always will suffer greatly.
I Have Tourette's But Tourette's Doesn't Have MeI Have Tourette's But Tourette's Doesn't Have Me · 2005
I Have Tourette's But Tourette's Doesn't Have Me
★ 7.22005
MovieDocumentary
This insightful Home Box Office documentary profiles some American children afflicted with Tourette's syndrome -- a hereditary neurological disorder manifested by recurrent, involuntary vocal and motor tics. More than a dozen youngsters ranging from ages 6 to 13 discuss the stigma of Tourette's, what it's like to grow up with the condition, control measures and the challenges they face to be viewed as normal.
Out of the BoxOut of the Box · 1998
Out of the Box
★ 7.21998
SeriesKidsFamily
Every day, a small group of neighborhood children come and play in "The Box," an imaginary clubhouse made entirely out of painted cardboard boxes. Along with their two caregivers, Tony James and Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin, the kids play games, do crafts, sing songs, and act out stories in the box.
Crisis Hotline: Veterans Press 1Crisis Hotline: Veterans Press 1 · 2013
Crisis Hotline: Veterans Press 1
★ 7.12013
MovieDocumentary
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, one veteran dies by suicide in America every 80 minutes. While only 1% of Americans has served in the military, former service members account for 20% of all suicides in the U.S. Based in Canandaigua, NY and open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the Veterans Crisis Line receives more than 22,000 calls each month from veterans of all conflicts who are struggling or contemplating suicide. This timely documentary spotlights the traumas endured by America’s veterans, as seen through the work of the hotline’s trained responders. CRISIS HOTLINE captures extremely private moments, where the professionals, many of whom are themselves veterans or veterans’ spouses, can often interrupt the thoughts and plans of suicidal callers to steer them out of crisis.
Middle School ConfessionsMiddle School Confessions · 2002
Middle School Confessions
★ 7.02002
MovieDocumentaryTV Movie
Adolescents confront issues of sexual activity, sexual orientation, violence, alcohol abuse and depression.
Risky DrinkingRisky Drinking · 2016
Risky Drinking
★ 6.92016
MovieDocumentary
Are you a risky drinker? Nearly 70% of American adults drink alcohol and nearly 1/3 of them engage in problem drinking at some point in their lives. Produced with The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Risky Drinking is a no-holds-barred look at a national epidemic through the intimate stories of four people whose drinking dramatically affects their relationships.
Alive Day Memories: Home from IraqAlive Day Memories: Home from Iraq · 2007
Alive Day Memories: Home from Iraq
★ 6.02007
MovieDocumentary
In a war that has left more than 25,000 wounded, ALIVE DAY MEMORIES: HOME FROM IRAQ looks at a new generation of veterans. Executive Producer James Gandolfini interviews ten Soldiers and Marines who reveal their feelings on their future, their severe disabilities and their devotion to America. The documentary surveys the physical and emotional cost of war through memories of their "alive day," the day they narrowly escaped death in Iraq.
I Can't Do This But I CAN Do That: A Film for Families about Learning DifferencesI Can't Do This But I CAN Do That: A Film for Families about Learning Differences · 2010
I Can't Do This But I CAN Do That: A Film for Families about Learning Differences
★ 6.02010
MovieDocumentary
Does having a learning disability mean that you can’t learn? Eight children prove that the answer is a definitive 'No' in this documentary. Interviews with kids are intercut with scenes of the children engaged in activities that reflect their talents to form a compelling portrait of the ways in which these young people use their strengths to overcome their challenges.
One Nation Under DogOne Nation Under Dog · 2012
One Nation Under Dog
★ 5.52012
MovieDocumentary
.Americans have had a long love affair with dogs, with many of us referring to our canine companions as best friends, significant others, soul mates, even children. But lost amidst all the pampering and pedestaling are hard and often tragic truths surrounding dog ownership, care and commerce, not to mention the daunting odds continuing to face millions of unwanted shelter dogs. Divided into three parts – “Fear,” “Loss” and “Betrayal” – this 73-minute documentary is comprised of eight case studies that probe the complicated and conflicted relationship we have with canines. Collectively, the segments reveal the sobering realities behind our relationship with dogs, showing not only how far some dog lovers will go for their pets, but how far we as nation have to go in order to treat all dogs humanely.
Wartorn: 1861-2010Wartorn: 1861-2010 · 2010
Wartorn: 1861-2010
★ 5.42010
MovieDocumentaryWar
With suicide rates among active military servicemen and veterans currently on the rise, this documentary brings urgent attention to the invisible wounds of war. Drawing on personal stories of American soldiers whose lives and psyches were torn asunder by the horrors of battle and PTSD, the documentary chronicles the lingering effects of combat stress and post-traumatic stress on military personnel and their families throughout American history, from the Civil War through today's conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
How Do You Spell God?How Do You Spell God? · 1996
How Do You Spell God?
1996
MovieFamily
Children from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds offer candid views on God, miracles, prayer, angels and faith.
The Artist in MeThe Artist in Me · 2002
The Artist in Me
2002
MovieDocumentary
A short documentary following 19-year-old Amanda Dunbar, who shares her thoughts on being an artist alongside a group of children in her art class. This documentary is included as a special feature on the 2002 Barbie as Rapunzel DVD.
Rebuilding Hope: The Children of 9/11Rebuilding Hope: The Children of 9/11 · 2021
Rebuilding Hope: The Children of 9/11
2021
MovieDocumentary
Four families with children who were born after their fathers perished on 9/11 share their stories of bravery and inspiration and reflect on how they rebuilt hope for their futures and came of age over the past 20 years.

More Like This

Inside Deep ThroatInside Deep Throat · 2005
Inside Deep Throat
★ 6.42005
MovieDocumentaryHistory
In 1972, a seemingly typical shoestring budget pornographic film was made in a Florida hotel: "Deep Throat," starring Linda Lovelace. This film would surpass the wildest expectation of everyone involved to become one of the most successful independent films of all time. It caught the public imagination which met the spirit of the times, even as the self-appointed guardians of public morality struggled to suppress it, and created, for a brief moment, a possible future where sexuality in film had a bold artistic potential. This film covers the story of the making of this controversial film, its stunning success, its hysterical opposition along with its dark side of mob influence and allegations of the on set mistreatment of the film's star.
SickoSicko · 2007
Sicko
★ 7.42007
MovieDocumentaryComedy
A documentary about the corrupt health care system in The United States whose main goal is to make profit even if it means losing people’s lives. "The more people you deny health insurance, the more money we make" is the business model for health care providers in America.
Bowling for ColumbineBowling for Columbine · 2002
Bowling for Columbine
★ 7.52002
MovieDocumentaryDrama
This is not a film about gun control. It is a film about the fearful heart and soul of the United States, and the 280 million Americans lucky enough to have the right to a constitutionally protected Uzi. From a look at the Columbine High School security camera tapes to the home of Oscar-winning NRA President Charlton Heston, from a young man who makes homemade napalm with The Anarchist's Cookbook to the murder of a six-year-old girl by another six-year-old. Bowling for Columbine is a journey through the US, through our past, hoping to discover why our pursuit of happiness is so riddled with violence.
TarnationTarnation · 2003
Tarnation
★ 6.82003
MovieDocumentaryDrama
Filmmaker Jonathan Caouette's documentary on growing up with his schizophrenic mother -- a mixture of snapshots, Super-8, answering machine messages, video diaries, early short films, and more -- culled from 19 years of his life.
Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low PriceWal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price · 2005
Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price
★ 6.22005
MovieDocumentary
This documentary takes the viewer on a deeply personal journey into the everyday lives of families struggling to fight Goliath. From a family business owner in the Midwest to a preacher in California, from workers in Florida to a poet in Mexico, dozens of film crews on three continents bring the intensely personal stories of an assault on families and American values.

More on MaxSee all →

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's StoneHarry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone · 2001
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
★ 7.92001
MovieAdventureFantasy
Harry Potter has lived under the stairs at his aunt and uncle's house his whole life. But on his 11th birthday, he learns he's a powerful wizard—with a place waiting for him at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As he learns to harness his newfound powers with the help of the school's kindly headmaster, Harry uncovers the truth about his parents' deaths—and about the villain who's to blame.
The BatmanThe Batman · 2022
The Batman
★ 7.72022
MovieCrimeMystery
In his second year of fighting crime, Batman uncovers corruption in Gotham City that connects to his own family while facing a serial killer known as the Riddler.
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the KingThe Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King · 2003
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
★ 8.52003
MovieAdventureFantasy
As armies mass for a final battle that will decide the fate of the world--and powerful, ancient forces of Light and Dark compete to determine the outcome--one member of the Fellowship of the Ring is revealed as the noble heir to the throne of the Kings of Men. Yet, the sole hope for triumph over evil lies with a brave hobbit, Frodo, who, accompanied by his loyal friend Sam and the hideous, wretched Gollum, ventures deep into the very dark heart of Mordor on his seemingly impossible quest to destroy the Ring of Power.​
InterstellarInterstellar · 2014
Interstellar
★ 8.52014
MovieAdventureDrama
The adventures of a group of explorers who make use of a newly discovered wormhole to surpass the limitations on human space travel and conquer the vast distances involved in an interstellar voyage.
Dune: Part TwoDune: Part Two · 2024
Dune: Part Two
★ 8.12024
MovieScience FictionAdventure
Follow the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a path of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, Paul endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee.
SupergirlSupergirl · 2026
Supergirl
★ 6.72026
MovieActionAdventure
When an unexpected and ruthless adversary strikes too close to home, Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, reluctantly joins forces with an unlikely companion on an epic, interstellar journey of vengeance and justice.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of SecretsHarry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets · 2002
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
★ 7.72002
MovieAdventureFantasy
Cars fly, trees fight back, and a mysterious house-elf comes to warn Harry Potter at the start of his second year at Hogwarts. Adventure and danger await when bloody writing on a wall announces: The Chamber Of Secrets Has Been Opened. To save Hogwarts will require all of Harry, Ron and Hermione's magical abilities and courage.
InceptionInception · 2010
Inception
★ 8.42010
MovieActionScience Fiction
Cobb, a skilled thief who commits corporate espionage by infiltrating the subconscious of his targets is offered a chance to regain his old life as payment for a task considered to be impossible: "inception", the implantation of another person's idea into a target's subconscious.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of FireHarry Potter and the Goblet of Fire · 2005
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
★ 7.82005
MovieAdventureFantasy
When his name emerges from the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter becomes a competitor in a grueling battle for glory among three wizarding schools. Signs of Voldemort's return emerge as Harry's friends help him prepare for the Triwizard Tournament.
The Dark KnightThe Dark Knight · 2008
The Dark Knight
★ 8.52008
MovieActionThriller
Batman raises the stakes in his war on crime. With the help of Lt. Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman sets out to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that plague the streets. The partnership proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a reign of chaos unleashed by a rising criminal mastermind known to the terrified citizens of Gotham as the Joker.
DuneDune · 2021
Dune
★ 7.82021
MovieScience FictionAdventure
Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet's exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence - a commodity capable of unlocking humanity's greatest potential - only those who can conquer their fear will survive.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of AzkabanHarry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban · 2004
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
★ 8.02004
MovieAdventureFantasy
Harry Potter's life is in danger once more as dangerous wizard Sirius Black has escaped from Azkaban Prison and is heading to Hogwarts.
The Suicide SquadThe Suicide Squad · 2021
The Suicide Squad
★ 7.42021
MovieActionComedy
Supervillains Harley Quinn, Bloodsport, Peacemaker and a collection of nutty cons at Belle Reve prison join the super-secret, super-shady Task Force X as they are dropped off at the remote, enemy-infused island of Corto Maltese.
The MatrixThe Matrix · 1999
The Matrix
★ 8.31999
MovieActionScience Fiction
Set in the 22nd century, The Matrix tells the story of a computer hacker who joins a group of underground insurgents fighting the vast and powerful computers who now rule the earth.
Mortal Kombat IIMortal Kombat II · 2026
Mortal Kombat II
★ 7.82026
MovieActionFantasy
The fan favorite champions—now joined by Johnny Cage himself—are pitted against one another in the ultimate, no-holds barred, gory battle to defeat the dark rule of Shao Kahn that threatens the very existence of the Earthrealm and its defenders.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 · 2011
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
★ 8.12011
MovieAdventureFantasy
Harry, Ron and Hermione continue their quest to vanquish the evil Voldemort once and for all. Just as things begin to look hopeless for the young wizards, Harry discovers a trio of magical objects that endow him with powers to rival Voldemort's formidable skills.
A Minecraft MovieA Minecraft Movie · 2025
A Minecraft Movie
★ 6.22025
MovieFamilyFantasy
Four misfits find themselves struggling with ordinary problems when they are suddenly pulled through a mysterious portal into the Overworld: a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they'll have to master this world while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected, expert crafter, Steve.
SupermanSuperman · 2025
Superman
★ 7.32025
MovieScience FictionAdventure
Superman, a journalist in Metropolis, embarks on a journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent.
Evil Dead RiseEvil Dead Rise · 2023
Evil Dead Rise
★ 7.02023
MovieHorrorThriller
A reunion between two estranged sisters gets cut short by the rise of flesh-possessing demons, thrusting them into a primal battle for survival as they face the most nightmarish version of family imaginable.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the RingThe Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring · 2001
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
★ 8.42001
MovieAdventureFantasy
Young hobbit Frodo Baggins, after inheriting a mysterious ring from his uncle Bilbo, must leave his home in order to keep it from falling into the hands of its evil creator. Along the way, a fellowship is formed to protect the ringbearer and make sure that the ring arrives at its final destination: Mt. Doom, the only place where it can be destroyed.

Rate this film

Your ratings make Midnight smarter