Whose Life Is It Anyway?

Ken Harrison, a Boston-based sculptor, is critically injured in a car crash and left paralyzed from the neck down. He discovers he can no longer use his hands, stand, or feed himself, shattering his sense of purpose. In the hospital, he confronts the prospect of a life he cannot live and decides he wants to end his life, if he can do so on his own terms.

Harrison asks for discharge to end his life, but Dr Emerson, the hospital administrator, is firmly opposed to euthanasia and rejects the request. Emerson argues for keeping him alive and managing his care instead of assisting a death. The conflict underscores the film's central ethical clash.

Harrison ends his relationship with Pat after revealing his new reality and wish to end his life. Pat is distraught by the news but eventually accepts that their life together cannot continue. The breakup highlights the personal cost of his decision.

Harrison decides to pursue a legal route and hires Carter Hill, a lawyer. Hill is initially reluctant to take the case but eventually agrees to represent him. This legal decision sets up the central court battle over his right to die.

With Hill's help, Harrison files a formal petition asking the hospital and physicians to honor his wish to end his life. The petition triggers review of patient rights and medical ethics. The hospital's response becomes a focal point of the film's debate.

Dr. Claire Scott develops genuine sympathy for Harrison and grapples with the possibility of keeping him alive against his wishes. She acknowledges his suffering and questions the morality of prolonging a life he doesn't want. Her internal conflict adds a personal dimension to the medical drama.

A young orderly and a young nurse lift Harrison's spirits by wheeling him into the hospital basement for a live reggae concert and marijuana. The escape from the ward offers him brief joy and human connection in his grim reality. The scene underscores how small acts can sustain hope even as the medical debate continues.

A formal hearing takes place where Harrison presents his arguments for autonomy over his own death. He cites his suffering, autonomy, and right to decide. The hearing frames the moral and legal question of a patient's right to end life.

The judge reviews precedents and sides with Harrison, affirming that he has the right to choose euthanasia under the circumstances. The ruling is a pivotal victory that validates his decision and shifts momentum toward his end.

In the final stage, Claire prepares Harrison for death in his bed and wrestles with her feelings. She attempts to kiss him, but he turns his head, signaling that he cannot accept her closeness as part of his last moments. She leaves him with the shade drawn, allowing him to pass in his own terms.

With his fate sealed by the court and his own resolve, Harrison passes away in the hospital as his loved ones confront the consequences. The death scene marks the culmination of his quest for control over his life and death.