‘Critical’ Look at Modern Medicine

At last, one of the most profound societal issues of the last two decades comes to the theater in the form of a smart, compelling movie.

“Critical Care” takes a critical look at modern medicine and the issue that has ripped at the health-care profession: economics versus ethics. A second theme in the movie centers on another relevant issue--the debate over the right to die.

The film is based on the 1992 novel by Richard Dooling and stars James Spader, Helen Mirren, Kyra Sedgwick, Albert Brooks, Jeffrey Wright, Wallace Shawn and Anne Bancroft.

The story follows a young doctor, played convincingly by Spader, and his battle with two sisters who each have a different view of how their terminally ill father should be treated.

The fact that a lot of money is riding on the fate of the patient complicates the young doctor’s job.

Without giving the ending away, the final moments of the movie suggest what health care ought to be: a compassionate service free of economic restraints and in the hands of thoughtful professionals--an idealistic vision that, today, has little basis in reality.

“Critical Care” will undoubtedly fascinate health professionals as well as health-business executives. Moreover, this movie will be food for thought for anyone who has ever fought with a health insurer or argued with a doctor over the treatment of a loved one.

Despite the serious themes, however, there are many hilarious scenes, particularly those centered on Brooks in the role of an old, jaded, alcoholic doctor.

* “Critical Care” (LIVE Entertainment) opens Friday at theaters. It is directed by Sidney Lumet. Running time: 109 minutes.