AFTER TILLER (Martha Shane, Lana Wilson). 85 minutes. Opens Friday (October 4) at the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. For times, see listings. Rating: NNNN
In this excellent, eye-opening film, Martha Shane and Lana Wilson look at doctors working in three U.S. clinics that perform third-trimester abortions – how they make their decisions and cope with the rabid opposition and threats against their lives.
It would have been easy to focus on demonizing the anti-choice activists who’ve been terrorizing these medical practitioners, but the directors take a much more nuanced approach, exploring the grey areas and refusing to shy away from the ethical dilemmas. In one sequence, New Mexico’s Susan Robinson says no to a woman pleading for the procedure. In another, Shelley Sella laments her complicity in ending what she admits is a life.
The title of the film refers to George Tiller, a physician assassinated by anti-choice fanatics. These doctors are determined to continue his work, but the essence of the doc isn’t their bravery, but their profound compassion.
One of the most important pro-choice movies ever made.
