This poetic documentary (classified according to American documentary theorist Bill Nichols’ conceptual scheme of documentary modes) was shot during the fall of 2012. It can be summarized through its subtitle: A Meditation on Death. Ever since my first close encounter with death and several subsequent encounters that same year, I’ve struggled to accept the fact that it’s real. My mind wanders over this grave topic probably more than it should. ”Taken” is a psychological journey that chronicles my thoughts, tying them all together by applying both the definition of the word “taken” and its antonym, “given.” Interwoven amidst my personal meditations is an interview with Mr. Ernie Heffner, President of Heffner Funeral Chapel and Crematory and the perfect candidate for the documentary since he, too, dances with death every day. The film ends on a positive note – as optimistic as possible, considering the subject matter – stressing the importance of being remembered.