A new documentary film about the Amish is set to air next month on PBS, titled The Amish: Shunned. This has been described as a follow-up to 2012’s well-received The Amish.

From the description:

A poignant and penetrating look at what it means to be cut off from faith and family, The Amish: Shunned follows seven people who have chosen to leave their closed and tightly knit communities for the outside world, knowing that they can never return. Each has paid deeply for their decision. Estranged from loved ones, these former Amish find themselves struggling to make their way in modern America.

Interwoven with their stories are the voices of staunchly loyal Amish men and women who explain the importance of obedience, the strong ties and traditions that bind them together, and the heartbreak they feel when a loved one falls away. Through its sympathetic portrayal of both sides, the film explores what is gained and what is lost when community and tradition are exchanged for individuality and freedom. Produced, directed and written by Callie T. Wiser, The Amish: Shunned premieres on American Experience on Tuesday, February 4, 2014, 9:00-11:00 p.m. ET on PBS (check local listings).

I’m supposed to be getting a preview copy any day now, so I expect I’ll have more to say then.  Any first impressions from the preview?

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