Created by Jean Mellano, ‘Slipping Away’ is a short documentary and tribute film. Steve Tarpinian was an accomplished athlete, coach and entrepreneur. On March 15, 2015, his battle with mental health succumbed to suicide. The film is composed of photographs and videos throughout Steve’s career and personal life. Some of the people who knew him best; Merle Aaron, Wendy Ingram, Jean Mellano, Chris Pfund and White Raymond, cite tributes to honor his legacy. The docu-short explores themes of suicide and mental health. ‘Slipping Away’ is a poignant film made from the heart.
The 6-minute film opens with a sequence of images of Steve’s athletic abilities, accompanied with voice-over narration by Jean Mellano (Steve’s life partner). Jean speaks of his humble, kind and gentle soul and the unfathomable mental anguish that led to his suicide. The film acts as a compliment to her Steve Tarpinian memoir. Mellano’s goal is to open up the conversation surrounding suicide and suppress the stigma. Quotes by Maya Angelou, Alfred Lord Tennyson and Robin Williams are cited by Steve’s nearest and dearest.
Visually, the short is limited to photographs and occasional videos. With respect, the documentary would be strengthened by live interviews – an alternative to the enduring voice-overs. Despite a limited production value, the documentary is a beautiful creation that honors Steve Tarpinian’s legacy. High praise to Jean Mellano – a courageous endeavor to produce.
