Review of The Death of Mr. Lazarescu (2005) by Ali B — 17 May 2010
A great film from the Romanian new wave, and possibly one of the best ever made about the failure of a health care system. Its about a nurse who takes an old man through the complex maze of hospitals, ERs, and various health care professionals, trying to get him the urgent care he needs.
The difficulties she encounters are bleak, unsparing and brutal. And also hilarious. Director Cristi Puiu is a major talent. He keeps his camera firmly focused on the situation at hand, keeping a slow and steady pace throughout, as Mr.
Larazescu passes away in increments. His handling of the comedy is exemplary. It can best be described as realistically absurd. Everything that happens in the movie is clearly well-researched and authentic, so the humour rises organically from the material.
Puiu is fiercely observant, and crams the picture with details, which only makes it that much more difficult to take. Compulsory viewing for healthcare professionals, and essential viewing for just about anyone else, its a one-of-a-kind ride through medical hell.
This review of The Death of Mr. Lazarescu (2005) was written by Ali B on 17 May 2010.
The Death of Mr. Lazarescu has generally received very positive reviews.
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