Republic of the Philippines

COLLEGE OF NURSING
Bicol University
Legazpi City

Title “A Private Matter”: A Movie Review

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Name Trisha Faye P. Ortega Level: BSN 2A Date September 7, 2020
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Really? “A Private Matter”??

"A Private Matter" is a 1992 American Drama Film directed by Joan Micklin Silver
featuring Sissy Spacek and Aidan Quinn. It is the first time that I have watched this movie,
and I would like to share my thoughts and opinions about its relevance. The film is based on
the Romper Room host's true story, Miss Sherri Finkbine, who sparked a media controversy
about her then famous abortion in 1962. It portrays an intelligent movie that tackled a
disputable topic up until today.

The film started in a studio setting where the main character, Miss Sherri Finkbine,
works as a television hostess in a popular child show in Phoenix, Arizona. She lives with her
husband, Bob Finkbine, who is a high school teacher, and with their four children. At that
time, Sherri was early weeks pregnant when she was taking the tranquilizers thalidomide to
alleviate her morning sickness. However, it became known that the use of that tranquilizers
while pregnant endangers the unborn baby and might cause deformities. They then discussed
the matter with Dr. Werner, and without Sherri's knowledge, they have scheduled a
therapeutic abortion. The situation caused Sherri to feel some emotions that lead her to share
her story to a local reporter. After some time, the news broke out, revealing her identity on
the issue. What they said to be a confidential matter was then subjected to public scrutiny.
They have lost their jobs on the journey and experienced different harassment forms as they
sought abortion services.

The actors and actresses did an exceptional job of portraying the characters assigned
to them. I want to commend Sissy Spacek as she did not just mimic Miss Sherrie's behavior,
but she also mirrored the heart of the character's emotional life. Furthermore, I would like to
applaud Aidan Quinn for portraying his paternalistic role excellently in the film. Overall, the
director did an exemplary job in selecting the cast.

The film consists of many good parts. Some of the scenes were when Sherri and Bob
displayed courage and boldness in facing the controversy. I loved how they stood together
amidst the situation. Although there were setbacks in their relationship, they have fought hard
for their decision. Another scene to love is the part where they explained the situation to their
kids in a way that the kids would understand without introducing inappropriate terms. What I
did not like in the movie is the part where Sherri was not included in almost all decision
making that Dr. Werner and Bob had made. Moreover, I was not too fond of the part where
men were stereotyped as unemotional and rational and women as emotional and irrational.

The film provided a spotlight for patient autonomy and paternalism. It emphasizes the
importance of giving opportunity and respecting an individual to make decisions regarding
her condition. Even though physicians know what's best for the patient, it is necessary to
include the patient in decision making. The movie also confronts the viewer with the need for
privacy and confidentiality regarding patients' private matters. Furthermore, the film did an
excellent job of showcasing women's reality concerning this sensitive matter. Women should
have the right to choose what to do with her body without being shamed by the public.

"A Private Matter" is a thought-provoking film that molds the audience. I highly
recommend this film to young and older adults. This film is rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly
Cautioned) as it includes inappropriate scenes for children. Overall, it is an impressive movie,
an excellent cast that delivered a moving film. I'm giving it a rating of 4 out of 5.

This movie critique is made by Trisha Faye P. Ortega. A 20-year-old sophomore at

Bicol University College of Nursing. She lives in Bato, Camarines Sur, and spends most of
her time reading books and enjoying a good Netflix binge. These days, she's been into
medical films or series such as The Grey's Anatomy, Diagnosis, and The Good Doctor. She is
a discreet and sensible person that loves a good drama.

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