Critical Care (film)

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Critical care poster

Critical Care is a 1997 American satirical comedy film directed by Sidney Lumet and written by Steven Schwartz, based on the novel by Richard Dooling. The film explores the ethical and moral issues surrounding modern healthcare and the business of medicine, particularly focusing on the intensive care unit (ICU) of a hospital. It stars James Spader as Dr. Werner Ernst, a young and ambitious resident who becomes entangled in a legal and ethical quagmire involving the care of a comatose patient.

Plot

Dr. Werner Ernst, a resident in a hospital's ICU, finds himself at the center of a legal battle over the care of a comatose patient, Mr. Potter. The patient's two daughters, Felicia and Connie, have differing views on their father's care. Felicia, a devout Christian, wants her father to remain on life support indefinitely, believing in a miracle, while Connie, more cynical and financially motivated, seeks to end her father's life support. As Ernst navigates the complexities of the healthcare system, he is also seduced by the materialistic lifestyle promised by the hospital's chief administrator, Dr. Butz, played by Albert Brooks. The film delves into the moral dilemmas faced by healthcare professionals and the influence of money and power in medical decisions.

Cast

• James Spader as Dr. Werner Ernst
• Kyra Sedgwick as Felicia Potter
• Margo Martindale as Connie Potter
• Albert Brooks as Dr. Butz
• Helen Mirren as Stella
• Jeffrey Wright as Bed Two

Themes

Critical Care addresses several themes, including the ethics of life support, the conflict between healthcare as a business versus a calling, and the moral dilemmas faced by medical professionals. The film critiques the American healthcare system, highlighting the influence of insurance companies and the legal system on medical decisions. It also explores the personal growth of Dr. Ernst as he confronts these ethical challenges and reevaluates his priorities and values.

Reception

Upon its release, Critical Care received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its sharp wit and insightful commentary on the healthcare industry, while others found its satire too broad or its tone inconsistent. Despite the mixed critical reception, the performances, particularly those of James Spader and Albert Brooks, were widely praised.

Legacy

While not a blockbuster hit, Critical Care has gained a cult following over the years for its bold examination of the healthcare system and its ethical quandaries. The film is often discussed in the context of medical ethics and healthcare policy, making it a relevant piece for those studying or interested in these fields.