Hot Docs

Winner of the Sundance Grand Jury Prize, this immensely moving film chronicles the right to die with dignity in Oregon, the first state to legalize physician-assisted suicide. From the opening scene, in which a terminally ill patient takes a lethal prescription and dies, How to Die in Oregon is clearly a departure from the all too common sensationalized debates surrounding life’s most personal issues. Filmmaker Peter Richardson accompanies wife, proud mother and cancer patient Cody Curtis throughout her decision process. With her family, her doctor and an advocate from the Compassion and Choices support group, Cody’s exploration of her remaining time presents a far more even-handed reasoning of the issue than any special interest group from either side could possibly offer. This powerful film is doubtless one of the year’s most intelligent examinations, not of death, but of life lived courageously. Myrocia Watamaniuk

Media Coverage

• Toronto Star review (recommended)