Director Philipp Döring filmed for two months in the palliative care unit of Berlin's Franziskus Hospital. His documentary »Palliativstation« captures the work of doctor Sebastian Pfrang, who helps terminally ill patients make their final life stage as comfortable as possible. The four-hour film is touching and reassuring at the same time.
In Berlin's Franziskus Hospital, palliative care doctor Sebastian Pfrang greets new patients with a simple question: He knows their medical history from the files, but what do they themselves think could be done for them in the clinic? This question often overwhelms the patients at first, as doctors rarely ask for their wishes.
Pfrang cares for people who can no longer be cured. Instead of treating, he wants to make their life as pleasant as possible on this final path. This shift in perspective defines palliative medicine, as director Philipp Döring shows in his documentary »Palliativstation«. Döring, who also handled camera, production, and editing, filmed for around two months on the ward.
The 245-minute film lasts four hours and leaves viewers wanting more: more time with the patients, who share their fears, sufferings, moments of comfort, and relief. Pfrang's approach to his patients is particularly impressive. He presents the remaining options openly and encourages them to open up to life. The film raises the question: If there is real help and the right words for the path to death, what exactly are we afraid of?
»Palliativstation« is multi-award-winning and currently showing in cinemas.