Louis Theroux: Altered States - Choosing Death

Louis Theroux: Altered States - Choosing Death is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged episode from the acclaimed British documentary series. Renowned journalist Louis Theroux continues his quest to explore the most controversial and complex aspects of American society, choosing in this episode to delve into the highly sensitive topic of assisted dying. Premiering in 2018 on BBC Two and now available on Amazon Addon, this documentary challenges viewers to grapple with profound sociocultural questions surrounding the right to die issue, and the boundaries between life, death, and personal autonomy.

In Choosing Death, Theroux travels to California, one of the six states in America where it is legal for terminally ill individuals to end their own lives with medical assistance. Throughout this emotive and contentious episode, Theroux employs his signature style of empathetic, unobtrusive questioning, combined with a skilled approach to immersive, participant-led journalism that has earned him critical acclaim and a devoted global following.

Guiding viewers through complex ethical terrain, Theroux interviews individuals who have chosen to exercise this right, their families, as well as the doctors, nurses, and end-of-life counsellors who support them through their decisions. This approach effectively illuminates a variety of perspectives on this complex issue, shedding light on both the personal and philosophical dilemmas that arise when considering the choice of ending one's life.

The documentary series has been applauded for its ability to tackle such controversial issues with great sensitivity and balance. In "Choosing Death”, Theroux’s candid interviews reveal the emotional struggles of the individuals and their families, considering the distressing choice in front of them. At the same time, the dialogue with the medical professionals provides valuable insights into the stage of life often clouded by fear, uncertainty, and often, societal taboo.

Choosing Death doesn't shy away from showing viewers the practical realities of medically assisted dying, either. Without resorting to sensationalism, Theroux explains the legal and logistical hurdles involved in the process, adding a layer of stark realism to the emotional narratives explored in the documentary. The objective is not only to emotionally move the viewers but also to inform them, contributing to the ongoing discourse around assisted dying laws and the rights of terminally ill patients.

While undeniably heartbreaking, Choosing Death is also filled with surprising moments of lightness, tenderness, and even humor. This is in no small part due to Theroux’s own warm and humane presence. His willingness to engage personally with the people he meets lends a palpable sense of heart to the series, and Choosing Death is no exception. Interspersed among the more challenging moments are instances of extraordinary compassion, bravery, and integrity, all of which contribute to an enriched understanding of what it means for a person to choose how and when they want to die.

Altered States - Choosing Death is emblematic of Theroux’s ability to confront major issues with an intriguing blend of curiosity, sensitivity, and respectful questioning. His empathetic exploration of the topic makes for difficult but necessary viewing, urging audiences to confront their own preconceptions and insecurities about death and dying. Honest yet tactful, it's a potent addition to his body of work, and an invaluable contribution to broader conversations about assisted dying, terminal illness, and the inherent dignity of life and death.

Whether or not you've seen other documentaries by Louis Theroux, Altered States - Choosing Death stands as a powerful piece of filmmaking in its own right. For those familiar with Theroux’s work, this episode offers yet another in-depth, nuanced examination of a complex social issue. For newcomers, it serves as an excellent introduction to Theroux’s captivating style of documentary storytelling.

Overall, Louis Theroux: Altered States - Choosing Death is a thoughtfully crafted, deeply moving exploration of one of the most intensely personal and polemic aspects of human existence: our right to choose the timing and manner of our own death. An essential viewing that will leave audiences pondering long after the credits roll, it is yet another testament to Theroux's delicate handling of sensitive subjects and his unique, immersive documentary style.