The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

This HBO film tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a poor Southern tobacco farmer who was unknowingly the source of the "immortal" He-La cells – the first human cells grown in a laboratory, which became one of the most important tools in medicine. The film chronicles the impact of these cells on her family, particularly her daughter, Deborah, who works to understand her mother's legacy and the medical advances her mother's cells made possible.

The film received generally positive reviews, with praise directed at the performances, particularly Oprah Winfrey's, and the sensitive handling of a complex and ethically charged story. Critics noted its effectiveness in bringing a crucial piece of medical history and its human consequences to a wider audience.

• A powerful and moving adaptation that highlights the ethical complexities of medical research.
• Oprah Winfrey delivers a standout performance, grounding the story with emotional depth.
• The film successfully balances scientific significance with profound human drama.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently commend the film for its emotional impact and the compelling performances, especially Oprah Winfrey's. Viewers found it educational and deeply affecting, appreciating its exploration of the Lacks family's story alongside the scientific advancements.

Nominated for multiple awards including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Television Movie, and Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries (Oprah Winfrey).

The film is based on Rebecca Skloot's critically acclaimed non-fiction book of the same name, which took over ten years to research and write.