Chi

Anne Wheeler's documentary follows the journey of Babz Chula (1946-2010), a 63-year-old Canadian actress engaged in a losing battle with cancer. Unhappy with the results from Western-style medical care, Chula travels to an Ayurvedic facility in India in order to pursue an alternative health treatment. At first, Chula experiences intense culture shock: the facility's hygienic standards are woefully inadequate, the food does not agree with her, and an oncologist who is brought in to consult turns out to be barely functional in speaking English. Indeed, the first part of Chi could be seen as a slam against Ayurvedic treatment in general and India's healthcare system in particular. But Chula slowly begins to experience improvement, and it seems that her trip to India was not in vain. Even when she returns home and a medical checkup reveals that the cancer actually advanced while she was away, Chula never betrays signs of despair or self-pity, and her spirit remains indefatigable even as her health frays. As she actively fights cancer while still making the most of her life, Chula exhibits dry wit, patience, and perseverance, resulting in a poignant portrait that is both uplifting and engaging in this powerful film about end-of-life issues. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)