Frontline: Being Mortal
Frontline: Being Mortal

Movie spotlight

Frontline: Being Mortal

Movie
54 min
English

Frontline follows renowned New Yorker writer and Boston surgeon Atul Gawande as he explored the relationships doctors have with patients who are nearing the end of life. In conjunction with Gawande's book, Being Mortal, the film investigates the practice of caring for the dying, and shows how doctors - himself included - are often remarkably untrained, ill-suited and uncomfortable talking about chronic illness and death with their patients.

Insights

IMDb8.4/10
Director: Thomas JenningsGenres: Documentary, Social Issues

Plot Summary

This Frontline documentary explores the realities of aging, dying, and palliative care in America. Based on Dr. Atul Gawande's book of the same name, it delves into the profound challenges faced by patients, families, and medical professionals in confronting mortality. The film highlights the disconnect between what medicine can do and what is most important to patients as they approach the end of life.

Critical Reception

Being Mortal was widely acclaimed for its sensitive and unflinching examination of end-of-life issues. Critics praised its emotional depth, informative content, and the compassionate approach taken by Dr. Gawande. It resonated with audiences for its relevance and its ability to spark important conversations about mortality and quality of life.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its profound emotional impact and its candid exploration of aging and dying.

  • Applauded for bringing crucial attention to the need for better palliative care and end-of-life discussions.

  • Considered a necessary and moving documentary that prompts reflection on life's final stages.

Google audience: While specific Google user ratings are not readily available, audience reactions generally reflect the critical praise, with viewers often expressing that the documentary was deeply moving, informative, and encouraged them to consider important end-of-life decisions.

Awards & Accolades

Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special (2015)

Fun Fact

The documentary is based on the acclaimed book 'Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End' by Dr. Atul Gawande, a surgeon and writer who also serves as the film's narrator and guide.

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