When Care Becomes a Commodity

Read Time:3 Minute, 46 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Stolen Time
–

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 25m
Director(s): Helene Klodawsky
Where To Watch: releases in select theaters on October 18, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: When profit often eclipses basic human decency, STOLEN TIME emerges as a telling documentary that doesn't just skim the surface but plunges into the murky depths of corporate greed in the elder care sector. Helene Klodawsky takes the director's chair, crafting an exploration that shines a spotlight on the commercialization of care, where monetary gain undermines the welfare of people. The focus of this battle is Melissa Miller, an advocate whose relentless pursuit of justice challenges the very fabric of the nursing home industry.

Klodawsky’s film is more than a mere expose; it's a rebellion against the injustices perpetrated by towering corporate entities against a backdrop of vulnerable seniors. The documentary charts the daunting array of legal and bureaucratic obstacles encountered by advocates like Miller, who strive to tilt the scales back in favor of humanity. It captures the struggles of those trapped by a system that puts profits over the sanctity of human life, using powerful testimonials from families and frontline workers to paint a broader picture of the industry's failures.

One of the documentary's core strengths is its unflinching look at how care has been transformed into a commodity, with transactions replacing interactions. It urges viewers to contemplate the grave consequences of such commodification. This critique extends beyond the screen, challenging viewers to reflect on the societal values that have allowed such practices to increase.

The film's emotional weight is amplified by its deep dive into the contrasting realities of warm, genuine empathy and the chillingly impersonal strategies of profit-driven care facilities. Klodawsky orchestrates an emotional odyssey that captures the complex interplay of human feelings against corporate coldness.

The documentary's innovative use of a mock trial serves as a dramatic pivot that exposes the defensive tactics employed by nursing home corporations while simultaneously pulling the audience deeper into the legal aspects. This choice enhances the storytelling, adding a layer of engagement and understanding to the complex legal battles being fought.

As the film concludes on a note of cautious optimism, it anchors its hope in the indomitable spirit of Miller, whose ongoing crusade against elder care abuses lights a beacon for future reform. STOLEN TIME advocates for a seismic shift in the perception and delivery of care, championing a model built on the bedrock of empathy and ethical responsibility. This film will connect with anyone who has ever had a loved one in any form of a long-term care facility. They can often associate that period in their life with heartbreaking scenes of the people they care about trapped in this reality.

Amidst a landscape where corporate dominance often overshadows the essential human need for compassionate care, STOLEN TIME stands as a critical narrative that challenges viewers to reassess the foundational principles of our care systems. The documentary calls for a return to compassion and dignity. It does so with a compelling urgency that resonates with anyone committed to the ethical treatment of the most vulnerable in society. This isn't just a film; it's a movement, a call to arms for all who hold dear the values of decency and respect in the care of older people.

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of INTUITIVE PICTURES, NATIONAL FILM BOARD OF CANADA (NFB)]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.