Oliver Sacks: His Own Life

On January 15, 2015, Oliver Sacks completed his autobiographical memoir, encapsulating his life experiences and reflections. This marked a significant moment as he not only documented his journey but also prepared to confront his own mortality.

Shortly after finishing his memoir, Sacks received the heartbreaking diagnosis that the rare form of cancer he had battled nine years earlier had returned. Given only a few months to live, this revelation profoundly impacted his outlook and priorities at the twilight of his life.

In the weeks following his diagnosis, Sacks engaged in extensive filmed interviews with documentarian Ric Burns. These interviews took place in his cozy New York apartment and spanned nearly eighty hours across five days filled with intimate conversations.

During the interviews, Sacks was surrounded by his beloved family and friends, sharing candid discussions about his life. This environment allowed him to reflect on his experiences openly and authentically.

As he engaged in these discussions, Sacks was accompanied by cherished items including books, minerals, and notebooks from his extensive career. These items served as vital touchstones for his reflective journey about the human brain and existence.

Throughout the interviews, Sacks confronted the concept of mortality with unmatched bravery and clarity. His candid admittance to being 'a sentient being on this beautiful planet' demonstrated his deep appreciation for life and its fragility.

The documentary interweaves nearly two dozen insightful interviews with notable figures close to Sacks. Contributors like Temple Grandin, Jonathan Miller, and Atul Gawande enriched the narrative by sharing their thoughts and experiences with him.

The film serves as a comprehensive exploration of human consciousness, illustrating how Sacks redefined our understanding of the mind. It showcases the complex interrelationship between art and science through his compassionate storytelling.

The documentary benefited from exclusive access to the extensive archives of the Oliver Sacks Foundation. This invaluable resource provided layers of context and richness to Sacks' life and work, further enhancing the film's biography aspect.

Oliver Sacks' reflections in the film invite viewers to contemplate their own lives amid his legacy as a physician and storyteller. His insights emphasize the wonders of existence and the importance of understanding our individual places in the world.

As Sacks approached his final days, he continued to engage in deep introspection, focusing on his past, work, dreams, and fears. This period was marked by a profound acceptance and contemplation of his life's impact.

Following the extensive interviews and preparation, the documentary 'Oliver Sacks: His Own Life' was completed. Released later, it captures the essence of his life work and invites audiences to appreciate the depth of human experience.