Ep 10. After Tiller

After Tiller, the tenth episode of POV season 27, is a powerful documentary that explores the controversial topic of late-term abortion. The film specifically focuses on four doctors who continue to provide these services in the wake of the assassination of their colleague, Dr. George Tiller, in 2009.

The documentary examines the motivations and personal beliefs of these four doctors, who all come from different backgrounds and hold different religious beliefs. Each doctor shares their experiences of working in a field where they are constantly vilified and threatened with violence, yet they remain committed to providing this critical service to women who need it. The film also shows the impact that Dr. Tiller's murder had on the doctors, their families, and their patients.

Throughout the documentary, viewers are given a glimpse into the lives of both the doctors and their patients. The film presents a range of stories from women who have had to make the difficult decision to seek a late-term abortion. Some of these women have been met with hostility from friends and family, while others have been forced to travel long distances to see one of the few remaining doctors who provide these services.

The documentary also explores the legal and political climate surrounding late-term abortion. The film highlights the tactics used by anti-abortion protestors and the lengths they will go to in order to shut down clinics and intimidate doctors and patients. At the same time, the documentary also sheds light on the complex and emotionally charged ethical considerations involved in the practice of late-term abortion.

After Tiller is an emotionally powerful film that offers a nuanced and compassionate look at a highly politicized issue. The documentary is a tribute to the bravery and dedication of doctors who remain committed to providing this critical service in the face of immense personal risk. It is also a moving testament to the courage of the women who seek out their services and the communities who support them. Through intimate portraits of the doctors and their patients, the film humanizes a topic that is often reduced to sound bites and political debates.

Overall, After Tiller is a thought-provoking and deeply moving documentary that provides a rare look into the experiences of late-term abortion providers and their patients. The film offers a compassionate and nuanced look at a topic that is often oversimplified and politicized in the media. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the ongoing debate over reproductive rights in the United States.