Originally broadcast on the BBC, Simon Curtis's drama tells the true story of the traumatic later years in the life of Dr. Anne Turner, a British physician whose husband died of a rare neurological disease. When Dr. Turner (Julie Walters) discovers that she has a more lethal variation of the same condition, she opts to pursue assisted suicide. Since euthanasia is illegal in Britain, she travels to Switzerland to make preparations. Turner's adult children (Liz White, Stephen Campbell Moore, Lyndsey Marshal) aren't pleased with her decision, even though they recognize the hopelessness of her situation. Sadly, the film deals with complex issues in a surprisingly simplistic manner, with the main opposition coming from a Christian neighbor (Michelle Fairley) who is presented as a strident stereotype rather than a genuinely concerned and devout individual. Walters, better known for her comedy roles, delivers a somewhat mannered performance here that never truly captures the depth and scope of Dr. Turner's harrowing fate. Ultimately, A Short Stay in Switzerland comes across as the British equivalent of the old “disease of the week” genre that was once a staple of American made-for-television movies. Optional. (P. Hall)
A Short Stay in Switzerland
BFS, 90 min., not rated, DVD: $24.99 Volume 26, Issue 5
A Short Stay in Switzerland
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