Stumped

Will Lautzenheiser, the engaging subject of Robin Berghaus's documentary, has had to reinvent his life after the partial loss of his limbs. In 2011, after moving from Boston to teach film at Montana State University, Lautzenheiser experienced leg pain that led to a staph infection, sepsis, and organ failure before amputations of his arms and legs saved his life. He credits his twin brother, Chris, and boyfriend, Angel, for supporting him through his hospital stay and beyond. Through rehabilitation, Lautzenheiser learns how to do everything all over again, such as writing to his niece using a prosthetic hand. Before amputation, he used to walk everywhere; now he alternates between a wheelchair and prosthetic legs. In his off hours, he works on short films, photography projects, and comedy routines with his friend, Steve, who also serves as a personal assistant. Just as it seems as if he's growing accustomed to his changed body, Lautzenheiser looks into arm transplant surgery. More than anything, he says, he longs for independence. After a year of testing, he begins the wait for a donor. Transplant specialist Dr. Matthew Carty emphasizes that the operation will entail a lifelong commitment to rehabilitation and immunosuppressant drugs that have significant side effects. Once donor arms become available, Berghaus films the steps from surgery to aftercare, incorporating material from an NPR segment on his subject’s journey. Berghaus lets Lautzenheiser, who is alternatively philosophical and realistic, set the tone, which helps her documentary avoid the "inspiration porn" territory in which the disability defines the human being. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)