Death Watch
Director: Bertrand Tavernier
Actors: Romy Schneider, Harvey Keitel, Harry Dean Stanton
PlotSet in a dystopian future where death from illness is rare, a television company is on the hunt for captivating content. The network's executive, Vincent, devises a plan to broadcast the final days of terminally ill patients to a morbidly fascinated audience. Journalist Roddy agrees to have a camera implanted in his brain to secretly film the experiences of a dying person. He soon comes across Katherine, a woman recently diagnosed with a terminal disease, and forms a relationship with her, all while capturing her most intimate and vulnerable moments without her knowledge.
As Roddy becomes more involved in Katherine's life, he struggles with his growing feelings for her and his ethical dilemmas about exploiting her for the network's gain. Katherine, unaware of Roddy's true intentions, shares her fears, dreams, and reflections on mortality with him, rekindling the journalist's humanity. The tension mounts as the broadcast date nears, and Roddy must decide whether to honor his professional commitment or protect the dignity of a woman he has come to care for deeply.
Writers: David Compton, David Rayfiel, Bertrand Tavernier
Release Date: 01 Apr 1982
Runtime: 117 min
Rating: R
Country: France, West Germany
Language: French, English, German
Home Video Reviews
Shout Factory continues to impress with Death Watch, a thought-provoking, atmospheric '80s film, joining their stellar releases like Fear City and upcoming classics.
Read our review of Death Watch Blu-ray to find out more