Films for Epiphany - Week #3: Patch Adams
Patch Adams: The true story of a medical student who breaks the rules by daring to proclaim that the best medicine is love, laughter, and play.
Introduction to Films for Epiphany
The Season of Epiphany presents us with the invitation to take stock and observe the way the Divine arrives, the Spirit interrupts, and the Christ invites us to imagine the Kin(g)dom in the midst of our haze and clutter. Practicing the season of Epiphany helps provide a lens to view some of the richest themes in human existence. We can observe how these themes play out in the grand drama of Scripture, as well as in our seemingly mundane lives. I, however, often need a bit of help to get the reflective juices flowing. My preferred contemplative catalysts are films, in part because, as Ingmar Bergman has observed, “No art passes our conscience in the way film does, and goes directly to our feelings, deep down into the dark rooms of our souls.”
So, in the spirit of the season, I would like to invite you to journey with us into a prolonged reflection on Epiphany-esque themes — through the stories of films. The third one being —PATCH ADAMS (1998). Each week, we will add a film to the list along with 1) a brief summary of the theme and an introduction to the film, and 2) a series of questions intended to prompt a thoughtful viewing and then we will have a post-viewing Discussion hosted by Pr. Zig via Zoom each Wednesday, beginning January 20-Wednesday, February 10. As with most things, these films (and the discussions that follow) are best enjoyed in community (Covid-safe pods), so I hope your Epiphany season will be enriched by these stories and the questions they raise for us.
Let us begin to reflect upon Patch Adams:
A Film Review by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat
This inspiring drama directed by Tom Shadyac is based on the book Gesundheit: Good Health Is a Laughing Matter by Hunter Doherty Adams with Maureen Mylander. It presents the true story of a Virginia medical student who breaks all the rules by daring to proclaim that the best medicine for patients is listening, love, compassion, laughter, and play. This exuberant and enthusiastic character, more than any other screen hero in 1998, demonstrates the spiritual practice of zeal — being aroused by life.
During a brief stay in a mental hospital, Patch Adams (Robin Williams) learns that empathy and creativity are two of the keys to healing others. Another is being able to see the "whole world anew each day." Believing that he is called to bring this revolutionary message to the medical establishment, he enrolls at Virginia Medical University. Adams's approach of seeking "to treat the patient as well as the disease" is viewed as anathema by Dean Walcott (Bob Gunton), a tyrannical believer in scientific objectivity.
Eager to test his new theories, Adams begins interacting with patients at the university hospital, even though students are not supposed to see patients until their third year of schooling. Donning a clown's nose and other whimsical disguises, he brings fun and laughter into the children's ward and surprises into the dull routines of older patients. He even manages to reach a terminally ill cancer patient (Peter Coyote) who is terrified of death. The head nurse (Irma P. Hall) believes in what he is doing and works along with him.
Dean Walcott, however, is not impressed; he is not even amused. He wants to have Adams expelled, even though this rebel with a cause turns out to be the best student in the class. Meanwhile, Patch convinces Carin (Monica Potter) and Truman (Daniel London) to join him in the establishment of a free clinic where they can practice the powerful medicine of alternative healing based on love. Even in the face of tragedy, Adams proves to be a resilient idealist. "You treat a disease," he argues, "you win or lose. You treat a person, and you always win."
Since 1971, the Gesundheit Institute has provided 15,000 people with free medical care and the healing balm of friendship. Patch Adams has said: "The most revolutionary act one can commit in our world is to be happy." Speaking right to the heart, this movie raises up joy as a way of life and passion as a foundational element in zeal.
Questions for Reflection & Discussion:
What made Patch realize that he wanted to have a career where he could serve others?
Describe Patch's approach to treating patients. How is his approach different from some
of his professors and peers?
What gifts did Patch have that he shared with his patients and friends?
How does Patch live out the "circle-of-faith-in-action": awareness, analysis, action?
What injustices does Patch see in medical treatments and institutions?
How does Patch decide to change the system?
Tell how each of these themes of can be found in the movie:
o life and dignity of the human person
o participation: the call to family and community o solidarity
How would you summarize Patch's philosophy on vocation and service?
How did Patch specifically make a difference and touch people's lives?
How can this movie serve as an impetus for you to make a difference in the world?