Watch You Don't Know Jack
- NR
- 2010
- 2 hr 14 min
-
7.5 (30,645)
You Don't Know Jack is a 2010 biographical drama film that chronicles the life of Dr. Jack Kevorkian, a controversial physician who became known as "Dr. Death" for his advocacy of assisted suicide. The movie stars Al Pacino as Kevorkian, Brenda Vaccaro as his sister Margo, and John Goodman as his friend and associate Neal Nicol. The film begins with Kevorkian conducting his first assisted suicide in 1990, and then flashes back to his early life as a pathologist and his growing frustration with the medical establishment's refusal to allow terminally ill patients to end their own lives. Kevorkian eventually decides to take matters into his own hands, designing a device called the "Mercitron" that would allow patients to administer a lethal dose of drugs to themselves. He begins offering his services to terminally ill patients, causing a media storm and drawing the attention of law enforcement.
The film explores Kevorkian's complex philosophy surrounding euthanasia, as well as his contentious relationship with the media, the medical community, and his own family. Kevorkian's sister Margo becomes his staunchest ally and advocate, while his associate Neal struggles with the ethical implications of their work. Throughout the film, Kevorkian's crusade for the right to die is tested by legal challenges and his own deteriorating health.
Pacino's performance as Kevorkian is both powerful and nuanced, capturing both the doctor's passion for his cause and his abrasive personality. The film offers a balanced portrayal of Kevorkian's controversial work, presenting arguments from both sides of the euthanasia debate, and raising important questions about the rights of the terminally ill.
In addition to its strong performances, You Don't Know Jack is particularly notable for its attention to detail. The film was shot on location in Michigan and features authentic recreations of Kevorkian's famous Volkswagen van, where he conducted many of his assisted suicides, as well as his home and workspace. The film's soundtrack also features a haunting score by Marcelo Zarvos, which underscores the emotional intensity of the story.
Ultimately, You Don't Know Jack is a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful film that offers a nuanced look at one of the most divisive figures in recent medical history. While it may not offer simple answers to the complex questions raised by the euthanasia debate, the film encourages its audience to engage in meaningful dialogue about these important issues.
You Don't Know Jack is a 2010 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.