A Short Stay in Switzerland (2009) (TV)

Director:

Simon Curtis

Writer:

Frank McGuinness (written by)

Release Date:

25 January 2009 (UK)

Genre:

Biography | Drama

Plot:

Just after losing her husband to a similar condition, Dr Anne Turner is diagnosed with a fatal neurological condition. So she plans to end her life herself. Based on a true story. |

Awards:

1 nomination

Cast

Julie Walters	...	Dr. Anne Turner
Stephen Campbell Moore	...	Edward
Lyndsey Marshal	...	Jessica
Liz White	...	Sophie
Michelle Fairley	...	Mrs. Savery
Will Knightley	...	Jack
Patrick Malahide	...	Richard
Harriet Walter	...	Clare
Sagar Arya	...	Kedar
Anthony Shuster	...	Stephen
Peter Foley	...	Electrician
Fergus Walsh	...	Interviewer
Susan Porrett	...	Receptionist
Jenny Jules	...	Patient
Indira Pandit	...	Sophie's Baby

Runtime:

UK:90 min

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Certification:

UK:15

Filming Locations:

London, England, UK

Company:

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Quotes:

[in a letter delivered to her friends after her death]
Dr. Anne Turner: [voiceover] Forgive me for not telling you in advance of my intentions, for not saying goodbye properly. Because the law in the UK is not supportive, I have had extra complications which have required a certain degree of secrecy. I hope I have spared you some of the pain and grief which those very few people in the know have experienced. My life has been wonderful and varied. I have always recognised how fortunate I am. Thank you for your friendship, love and support. Yours, Anne.

A wonderful film and a wonderful actor.

*** This review may contain spoilers ***

Julie Walters really captures the essence of a woman who will not become the victim of a terrible disease and shows how to pull at the heart strings with some fine acting that goes beyond the script.

This movie really brings the issue of euthanasia into the home and into the thoughts of all of us. What is really right when it comes to euthanasia, after all, Jesus helped to relieve the pain and suffering of many, but religion is not the debate here, the real story is Doctor Anne Turner and her family supporting each other through their time of need. The film, although sad, is uplifting and brave. The issues brought to light within the film help to show us how dignity is lost and pain, and suffering commences when there is no option for assisted suicide in the terminally ill.