DocFest hosted the British Premiere of this special episode of the BBC’s Panorama documentary television series. Many will be already familiar with this film, as its provoked something of a controversial reaction from the press. In summary, Fantasy author Terry Pratchett here fronts a documentary exploring the notion of assisted suicide, an act that deemed a criminal offence in this country. As a sufferer of alzheimer’s disease Pratchett has made it something of a personal quest of his to see the laws on assisted suicide changed, so that, when he feels as though he is ready to do so, he can end his life in the way that that he best sees fit. Now thats an incredibly crass and shorthanded take on the current scenario, but its the best that I can do; Terry Pratchett: Choosing To Die was an incredibly emotional experience, and almost 24 hours on from seeing the documentary, I have to admit that I’m still struggling to come to terms with the content of the film. I had wanted to write an in-depth analysis of Charlie Russell’s film, but I don’t think it would be fair of me to do so, such was the overwhelmingly emotional reaction that I had to the film.

While the debate on the intricies of Mr. Pratchett’s campaign are no doubt set to be explored at great length for some time (and even more furiously in the wake of this documentary airing on terrestrial television tomorrow night), one thing is certain, and that is that something here is not right. Something needs to change. I have a feeling that this campaign may come to define this period of Pratchett’s life. This is a powerful, essential work.

Terry Pratchett: Choosing to Die airs on BBC2 at 9pm on June 13th. Please watch it.