A Certain Kind of Death

Charles E. Guggenheim Emerging Artist Award 2004

NEW DOCS

What happens when someone dies with no next of kin? Who takes responsibility for identifying the person, preparing the body, determining funeral and burial arrangements, and disposing of possessions? Filmmakers Grover Babcock and Blue Hadaegh follow three such deaths in Los Angeles, beginning with removal of the bodies by the coroner’s office and continuing until each case is resolved. Though this film is not for the squeamish, it is also not morbid; instead the viewer comes away with a profound appreciation for life and relationships. One also comes to appreciate the civil servants who go about these unsettling tasks professionally, thoroughly, and respectfully.  AT

Directors

Blue Hadaegh, Grover Babcock

Producers

Blue Hadaegh, Grover Babcock

Release Year

2003

Festival Year

2004

Country

United States

Run Time

70 minutes