Not Going Quietly

Not Going Quietly is a poignant and gripping 2021 documentary that details the extraordinary life of Ady Barkan. Directed by Nicholas Bruckman and produced by Amanda Roddy, the film tells the inspiring journey of Barkan, a lawyer and activist who has been living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) since 2016. The film also features politicians Cory Booker and Tracey Corder, offering an insightful backdrop on the fight for healthcare reform in the United States.

As the main subject of the documentary, Ady Barkan's story resonates at the intersection of personal tragedy, resilient spirit, and ceaseless activism. Barkan, who had a thriving career as a lawyer and was gaining reputation as a political activist, was diagnosed with ALS, a degenerative neurological disorder. Instead of backing away in the face of this life-threatening disease, Barkan decided to use his voice and his story to fight for universal healthcare – bringing to light the injustices and inequalities in the American healthcare system.

The film follows Barkan as he embarks on a national tour to promote healthcare reform, confronting lawmakers and politicians at public hearings, and inspiring thousands of individuals to join in his cause. Despite the rapid progression of ALS making it challenging for him to move and speak, Barkan's moving and courageous spirit continues to ignite social change, showcasing the power of individual determination amidst bleak realities.

Not Going Quietly presents a deep dive into the personal journey of Ady Barkan framed within the larger context of the political landscape in America. Cory Booker, a Democrat senator from New Jersey, serves as a motivational figure in aligning with Barkan's healthcare campaign. Simultaneously, Tracey Corder, a political strategist who has worked extensively on improving racial justice, climate change, and healthcare, adds to the compelling narrative of the story.

The juxtaposition between Barkan's physical decline and his iron determination is portrayed with poetic dignity in this documentary. His vibrant, witty, and hopeful personality shines through, despite the increasingly debilitating progression of the disease. The filmmaker expertly chronicles Barkan's intimate moments with his family, alongside his politically charged activism, resulting in an emotionally rich and evocative narrative.

In the face of heartbreaking adversity, Not Going Quietly becomes more than just a portrait of an activist. It’s a testament to the power of human resilience and the effect an individual's story can have on a nationwide political debate. It opens a window into Barkan's daily struggles, his successes, and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others facing similar health crises.

What sets Not Going Quietly apart from other health-related documentaries is the narrative of Barkan's life has been intricately woven with the U.S. political climate. It's not just a story about a man with a degenerative disease; it's about an individual choosing to turn his personal tragedy into a national dialogue – tackling important issues that affect millions of Americans on a day-to-day basis.

The film constructs a stirring message about compassion, community, justice, and the fight for democracy. It poignantly highlights Barkan's incessant battle to retain his autonomy as his condition deteriorates. His conversations with his wife and their young son, highlighted in frames that illustrate his resolute spirit, leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Not Going Quietly is more than a documentary about a man’s battle with ALS; it is an authentic exploration of adversity, the audacity of hope, and an unyielding will to make a difference. Through a cinematic blend of personal and political issues, the film offers a powerful commentary on the healthcare debates in America and the transformative journey of an afflicted man determined not to go quietly into the night.

Not Going Quietly is a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration from real-life stories of resilience, activism, and the unabating human spirit. It is a compelling tribute to Barkan’s lifetime work and a testament to his devotion for a cause encompassing the hopes and rights of numerous individuals. Barkan’s story is not only an individual narrative, but a powerful echo of the collective voice calling for necessary reform in healthcare.