The Last Stop

The Last Stop sheds light on the controversial Élan School, a now-defunct behavior modification program and therapeutic boarding school located in Maine, USA. It presents a harrowing account of the school’s practices and their lasting impact on former students through a series of interviews, archival footage, and personal testimonies.

The documentary paints a vivid picture of life at Élan School, where troubled teens were subjected to extreme disciplinary measures and controversial therapy techniques. Former students recount their experiences of public humiliation, forced confrontations, and a rigid system of peer pressure designed to break down their personalities and rebuild them according to the school’s standards.

One of the most shocking aspects revealed in the film is the school’s use of a “boxing ring” where students were forced to confront each other physically and emotionally. This practice, along with other forms of punishment such as cleaning urinals with toothbrushes for hours, was part of the school’s approach to behavior modification.

The documentary also touches on several high-profile cases associated with Élan School. It discusses the involvement of Michael Skakel, who was convicted of murdering Martha Moxley in 1975. During his trial, former Élan students testified about Skakel’s alleged confessions while at the school, highlighting the institution’s role in a broader context of criminal justice.

Furthermore, The Last Stop addresses tragic incidents involving Élan students, including the death of Brad Glickman, a runaway who was accidentally shot while staying with a local family, and the murder of Dawn Marie Birnbaum, who was killed after running away from the school during an outing.

The film provides a balanced perspective by including testimonies from those who claim to have benefited from their time at Élan, as well as those who were deeply traumatized by their experiences. This nuanced approach allows viewers to understand the complex nature of the school’s impact on its students.

By examining the school’s practices and their consequences, the documentary raises important questions about the ethics of behavior modification programs and the treatment of troubled youth. It highlights the long-lasting psychological effects on former students, many of whom continue to grapple with their experiences decades later.