‘A Friend in Death’ documentary greenlit for production
The documentary will follow a group of passionate volunteers who record the biographies of palliative care patients, opening up an unexpected pathway of healing and acceptance through the uncovering of wonderful life stories.
Screenwest is pleased to announce A Friend in Death, a half-hour documentary directed by Joshua Lee (The Fathering Project) has been greenlit for production by Screenwest and ABC Compass.
The documentary will follow a group of passionate volunteers who record the biographies of palliative care patients, opening up an unexpected pathway of healing and acceptance through the uncovering of wonderful life stories.
“I initially discovered this story by exploring palliative care programs due to a friend dealing with cancer. I found these biographers who were writing the life stories of their dying clients and was immediately moved by the way storytelling was being employed to help people in such a profound way. With interstate shooting and dealing with the aged care sector in the middle of a pandemic the project has been logistically ambitious, however I think these factors make the story even more relevant. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to tell this story and I’m sure with such a beautiful cast of characters, audiences will be joyfully moved with A Friend in Death.” said Joshua Lee, Director.
The documentary aims to explore the unexpected path of healing and comfort through the simple act of sharing and being heard, as well as challenge audiences to look at how community engagement can help to normalise death, and enable a more dignified and peaceful end of life for the terminally ill.
“With the aged care sector currently under siege on many fronts, Josh Lee and Alice Wolfe’s poignant film, A Friend In Death, is a very timely reminder of the kind of outstanding community-based programs that are possible for elderly Australians.” said Paul Williams, Screenwest Documentary Manager.
A Friend in Death is currently underway in Perth.
The documentary will premiere on ABC Compass in 2022.
A Friend in Death is a Periscope Pictures production for the ABC with principal production investment from Screenwest and Lotterywest. Developed with the assistance of Screen Australia.
Contact Screenwest
T: +61 8 6169 2100
E: info@screenwest.com.au
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