Watch Hippocratic

Hippocratic is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary released in 2017, which intimately portrays the life and work of Dr. M.R. Rajagopal, a pioneer in palliative care from India. This compassionate and inspiring film takes viewers on an emotional journey, shedding light on the plight of patients who suffer from incurable diseases and the immense challenges faced by those dedicated to providing them comfort and dignity.

The film Hippocratic, directed by Mike Hill, encompasses two parallel narratives. The first follows Dr. Rajagopal, the protagonist, as he reflects on his life and career while sharing deeply personal stories from his childhood, education, and his journey into the world of medicine. Born and raised in a small village in India, Rajagopal's innate curiosity and passion for helping others led him to study medicine. The film beautifully weaves together his personal experiences and professional achievements, highlighting the challenges he faced along the way and the remarkable impact he has had on palliative care.

The second narrative revolves around a specific case study, exploring the daily struggles of a patient named Chandrakant, who is suffering from a terminal illness. Chandrakant serves as a representative figure, representing countless others grappling with pain, limited resources, and a lack of access to quality end-of-life care. Through Chandrakant's story, the film delves into the complexities surrounding pain management, the emotional toll it takes on patients and their families, and the urgent need to redefine societal attitudes towards dying.

Hippocratic is deeply introspective, as it not only addresses the difficulties encountered in the field of palliative care but also questions larger cultural, social, and political issues. It examines the impact of poverty, weak healthcare systems, and the stigma associated with death and suffering, revealing how these factors often exacerbate patients' pain and diminish their quality of life. Dr. Rajagopal passionately advocates for the integration of palliative care into mainstream medicine, fighting for policy changes in India and around the world. His unwavering determination to alleviate the suffering of the dying becomes a central theme throughout the film.

The cinematography in Hippocratic is both striking and emotive, capturing intimate moments that invite viewers into the lives of patients and their families. The camera lingers on the faces of those enduring pain, juxtaposed with the tenderness and care provided by Dr. Rajagopal and his team. These visuals create a powerful contrast that underscores the tremendous impact of palliative care in transforming the final stages of life. The documentary adeptly balances moments of despair and hope, providing a multifaceted portrayal of the complex emotions experienced by patients, their loved ones, and the healthcare professionals who accompany them on their journey.

Furthermore, the film explores the ethics of euthanasia and assisted dying, prompting viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and moral values. Dr. Rajagopal advocates for a compassionate approach that prioritizes the alleviation of suffering, challenging the notion that death should be feared and hidden away. His compassionate philosophy challenges societal norms and encourages a dialogue about redefining the relationship between medicine and end-of-life care.

Overall, Hippocratic is a moving and enlightening documentary that sheds light on the struggles faced by patients with terminal illnesses and the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to improve their quality of life. Through its poignant storytelling and emotionally charged narratives, the film inspires conversations surrounding palliative care, end-of-life choices, and the urgent need for universal access to compassionate healthcare. Dr. M.R. Rajagopal's tireless advocacy and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others is a testament to the power of compassion and human connection.

Hippocratic is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2.