Simon Chambers’ documentary “Much Ado About Dying” is a heart-wrenching portrayal of his uncle David Gale’s final days. A long-retired actor and teacher in his eighties, Gale has not left his home in years due to its squalid conditions. The house is infested with mice, and Gale keeps his legs near portable heaters to cope with the lack of heat.
As Chambers films his uncle for most of the 82-minute documentary, he also grapples with the inadequacies of Britain’s senior care system. Like Gale, Chambers is a single gay man who faces uncertainty about his own future care arrangements.
Despite the challenges, David reveals himself to be a funny and cantankerous old man, often sprinkling Shakespearean quotes into conversation. However, he also exhibits foolish behavior, such as giving away large sums of money to someone he’s in love with.
As Chambers struggles to provide adequate care for his uncle, he faces emotional and physical exhaustion. When David requires more care than Chambers can provide, they put him in a nursing home, where doctors discover advanced prostate cancer and kidney dysfunction.
The documentary raises serious issues about the lack of support for older single gay men, who often face isolation and uncertainty without family or a spouse to turn to. “Much Ado About Dying” sparks important conversations about these pressing concerns, while also introducing viewers to a colorful and unforgettable character in David Gale.
Source: https://www.ebar.com/story.php?ch=events&sc=arts_events&id=337122&title=much_ado_about_dying_-_unflinching_look_at_a_gay_elders_final_days