Watch Not Going Quietly

Not Going Quietly is a powerful and emotional documentary that follows the inspiring journey of Ady Barkan, a vibrant young father and acclaimed progressive activist, as he battles ALS and fights for healthcare justice. In 2016, Barkan was a healthy, energetic lawyer and new father when he was diagnosed with ALS, a degenerative disease that causes muscle weakness and atrophy throughout the body. The diagnosis was devastating, but Barkan refused to give up or give in to despair. Instead, he decided to use his platform and his voice to fight for the rights of all Americans to affordable and quality healthcare.

The film traces Barkan's journey as he becomes a leading advocate for healthcare reform and a fierce critic of the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act. Despite his physical limitations, Barkan travels across the country to attend town halls, rallies, and other events, speaking out about the importance of healthcare as a basic human right. He connects with other healthcare activists and reformers, including presidential candidate and fellow senator Cory Booker, and works tirelessly to amplify their voices and bring about substantive change.

Throughout the film, Barkan confronts the limitations and realities of living with ALS. He struggles with the loss of his physical abilities, including his voice, which he ultimately loses entirely. He relies on his wife, Rachael, and his young son, Carl, for support and inspiration. Their love and care, along with the support of Barkan's larger community, fuel his activism and his determination to make a difference.

The film also delves into the larger political and social context in which Barkan's activism takes place. It examines the partisan politics that have stymied progress on healthcare reform for decades, the social and economic factors that prevent many Americans from accessing adequate healthcare, and the personal stories of those who have been affected by the failures of the system. Interspersed with interviews and footage of Barkan's activism are powerful testimonies from activists, healthcare professionals, and everyday people who have been affected by the high cost and limited accessibility of healthcare in America.

Not Going Quietly is a poignant and timely documentary that grapples with some of the most pressing issues facing American society today. Barkan's story is one of courage, resilience, and hope, and his advocacy for healthcare justice is a testament to the power of the human spirit to effect meaningful change in the world. Through his activism, he shows that even in the face of immense adversity, it is possible to make a difference and to leave a lasting impact on the world. Whether you're a seasoned political activist or simply a concerned citizen, this documentary is sure to inspire you to take action and join the fight for a better future.

Not Going Quietly is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9 and a MetaScore of 73.