PANACEA 2020

Wit (2001)
This American, made for television, movie was based on the book and Pulitzer Prize winning play by
Margaret Edson. The director, Mike Nicholls and the star, Emma Thompson tweaked the dialogue but
largely it remains true to the play. This includes the theatrical technique called ‘breaking the
fourth wall’, where the actor addresses the audience directly.
It is a cancer movie; you know we had to have one; and I feel that this is the best. It has no
clichés, it isn’t maudlin nor are there any miracles. It involves the eight months of aggressive
treatment of advanced ovarian cancer in a 50 y.o. professor of English literature. Vivian (Emma
Thompson) has no partner, no children, no religious affiliation and few friends. Her life revolved
around her study of the poetry of John Donne. This is a recurring theme throughout the movie.
Although the lack of social support is not typical of life or the cancer movie genre, the focus on
one’s career is a situation that other professionals can empathise with and it does allow a more
intimate relationship with the audience.
Emma Thompson is perfect in the role,
perhaps aided by her university
degree in English literature. She is
ably assisted by Christopher Lloyd,
Jonathon M Woodward and Audra
McDonald all providing authentic
hospital characters.
Awards included two Emmys for best
movie for television and best
directing of a movie for television.
Rotten Tomatoes give it 83%.
So, why is this movie a must-see for
medical students? Firstly, to note
the communication skills and agenda
of the medical staff. Secondly, to
see what some of our therapies put
patients through. Thirdly, to see
that the subjects enrolled in
research projects are real people.
Fourthly, to join the main character
in realising that all the learning in
the world can never make up for a
lack of kindness.
In searching online, I noted that
there was an article in the BMJ
outlining the use of excerpts from
Wit as an entree to the discussion of
communication in medical practice.
Though I do applaud that initiative,
my stance would be to make them watch
the entire movie; to place the
conversations in context and make
them appreciate the beauty and power
of great art!
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