In what may be the first film dealing with astral projection at the festival, director/screenwriter Howard Goldberg takes viewers on a journey of transcendence and transformation.

In the ethereal Eden, a New England housewife struggles to find herself despite the constraints placed upon her by her husband, a teacher at the Mt. Eden boarding school, and her body, which suffers from multiple sclerosis.

Joanna Going plays Helen, the beautiful young housewife who dreams one night of flying. The more frustrated she becomes with her husband's strict views and her narrow life as a mother, the more she lets herself succumb to the dreams which have excited and awakened her mind. Soon Helen experiences full-blown out-of-body travel, and discovers a reality and truth she could never find within her home or her body. Goldberg should be commended for making the story a believable and heartfelt look into the soul. Even though this journey of discovery is one of unconventional means, it does not seem out of place or unbelievable in the context.

Strong performances are given by the principle cast, especially Going, who plays the fragile angel and strong-willed woman with equal insight and ease. Sean Patrick Flanery is engaging as the rebellious boarding student who lives upstairs. Always introuble with his advisor, who just happens to be Helen's husband, Flannery's character is both honorable and misunderstood.

The film is full of atmosphere, touching the senses visually and emotionally. Special effects are used sparingly, leaving the viewers to travel Helen's fascinating path through their own mental journey. Eden becomes a spiritual and emotional exploration for each of us without forcing any set realization.