Humor and Humanity in Life’s Final Chapter

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MOVIE REVIEW
Sister Úna Lived a Good Death
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 12m
Director(s): Par Parekh
Where To Watch: will debut on PBS’s INDEPENDENT LENS on February 5, 2024, at 10 p.m. (check local listings). The film will also be available to stream on the PBS App.

RAVING REVIEW: SISTER ÚNA LIVED A GOOD DEATH is a heartwarming and thought-provoking documentary that engages audiences with its emotional edge and unique perspective; this documentary is a very personal experience with a broad reach. Directed by Par Parekh, the film follows Sister Úna Feeney, a nun who embodies defiance and compassion in equal measure. Her battle with stage IV cancer doesn't dampen her spirits; instead, it fuels her commitment to living authentically and advocating for social justice. I would say that I’m not very religious, but I found I could still connect with the film; there’s something universal about her story.

SISTER ÚNA LIVED A GOOD DEATH presents a character who breaks away from the typical image of a nun. Sister Úna is a rule-breaker who loves smoking, drinking, and humor and is an icon for the LGBTQ community and others she inspires. This film does more than chronicle her final days; it dives into her essence and impact on those around her. As mentioned, the film is about Sister Úna but is also about her experience as a human as much as anything.

The narrative's strength lies in its relatable portrayal of a heavy subject like death, turning it into a theme that’s as comforting as it is compelling. The film's direction balances light-hearted moments with profound insight, making Sister Úna's story resonate with a broad audience. I would have liked to have seen another half an hour or so worth of story about who Sister Úna was; we get a peek into her story in these final days, but not enough before.

One of the film's most notable aspects is its timely contribution to the growing movement of open conversations about mortality. SISTER ÚNA LIVED A GOOD DEATH aligns with this cultural shift, encouraging viewers to face mortality with a blend of bravery and curiosity. It's a call to embrace acceptance and purposeful living in the face of life's inevitable conclusion. It was a welcoming experience seeing Sister Úna’s acceptance and apprehension of what was on the other side.

As the documentary accompanies Sister Úna through her final journey—organizing her funeral, working on her bucket list, and guiding her community—it transforms into a moving reflection on finding joy and dignity in every stage of life. The film brings together themes of laughter, connection, and a candid look at life's ultimate transition.

SISTER ÚNA LIVED A GOOD DEATH is a poignant exploration of embracing life with passion and purpose. While the film had room for improvement in delving deeper into its subject matter, it still stands out as an inspiring and thoughtful portrayal of how to live and die with intention. Sister Úna's legacy, as depicted in this film, leaves an indelible mark, inspiring us to approach our lives with the same enthusiasm and authenticity. Ultimately, this is the type of religious figure I can get behind!

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[photo courtesy of INDEPENDENT LENS, ITVS, PBS]

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