Death: A Love Story

A multi-award-winner on the film festival circuit, Michelle Le Brun's wrenching documentary may not be easy to watch, but it could provide some solace to families struggling to cope with a loved one's terminal illness or death. Le Brun, 35, and Mel Howard, 58, an actor best known for his role in Hester Street, were married for two years when Mel was diagnosed with liver cancer. Side by side, to quote the old standard included on the soundtrack, they face the trouble and sorrow, chronicling their experiences with family, friends, doctors, alternative medicine, and insurance companies on video. Some viewers may find the forays into New Age-speak and imagery off-putting, but by the time the couple achieve their hard-earned serenity on his deathbed, this film may, in Mel's words, “open the closed spaces of the heart.” DVD extras include deleted scenes, a filmmaker interview, resource guide, and more. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (D. Liebenson)