Review of Anatomy of an Illness
Starring Ed Asner, this is a movie that is an absolute must see. Asner
portrays a Saturday Review Editor, Norman Cousins. Cousins has been diagnosed
with a degenerative spinal illness. The film, which was originally a made for TV
movie, first aired in 1984; however, the story itself is set in 1964. Cousins,
although naturally upset at the prognosis refuses to go down without a fight.
Unable to accept the prognosis he has been given, to remain a vegetable the rest
of his life, he begins to battle his illness using whatever weapons he has
available to him. This includes the support of his wife, his own sense of human
and the belief that he will make it through this no matter what.
This touching film covers the spiritual battle that anyone who finds themselves
in such a situation would endure. While it does an excellent job of portraying
the emotions of a patient in an extremely difficult situation there are also
plenty of humorous moments.
The film was based on a book written by Norman Cousins himself and the
experiences he dealt with. Whether you’re simply looking for a really good
movie, know someone who is dealing with a difficult prognosis or you are facing
one yourself, this is a must see film. You will come away feeling uplifted and
hopeful while at the same time understanding the Anatomy of an Illness much
better.