Extremis

Extremis (2016)

Directed by Dan Krauss

The end-of-life decisions in an ICU can be harrowing. The challenges face not only the families of the patients, but also the professionals working with them.

This film was nominated for and Academy Award for Best Documentary (Short Subject). Dan Krauss directed, filmed, and produced this film. He was also nominated in 2006 for his short documentary The Life of Kevin Carter.

This is a powerful documentary that follows doctors, patients, and family members as they make tough choices. The emotion is raw as the camera captures these moments in the lives of the subjects. Much of the film feels like it was done by an unseen observer. This really helps the focus to stay in the moment. Overall, this is one of the better short documentaries I’ve seen in a long time.

This is a good one for fans of documentaries. I think fans of Allan King might enjoy this one. There’s something to be said for a documentary that isn’t bent on finding an answer. Like the subject, there isn’t always a clear path to take. I give this one 5 out of 5 stars.

Rating: TV-PG

Running Time: 24 Minutes