Kevorkian helps bring HBO movie to life

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
Friday, October 26, 2007

By Kimberly Nordyke

Jack Kevorkian, the advocate of doctor-assisted suicide who spent eight
years in prison for second-degree murder, is cooperating with HBO Films
for a movie about his controversial practices.

Kevorkian, now 79, assisted in at least 130 suicides and beat the state
court system in Michigan numerous times, but he was convicted in 1999
after he willingly sent a videotape of himself euthanizing a terminally
ill man to CBS’ "60 Minutes."

He received a 10- to 25-year sentence for second-degree murder —
serving his sentence in a maximum-security prison in Michigan — but was
paroled in June.

Executive producer Steve Jones — who has been working on this project
for a few years — noted that it marks the first time Kevorkian has
authorized any media-based project surrounding his life and efforts in
assisted suicide.

"He’s a living icon, and he’s led one of the most unique lives there is;
there’s not a dull moment," said Jones.

"He doesn’t grant interviews readily, but now he wants his story to be
told. Whether or not you agree with his views or actions, one thing is
for sure: His passion is something to be in awe of. He gave up eight
years of his life to make a point."

The script is being written by Adam Mazer, who co-wrote the espionage
thriller "Breach," released this year. Neal Nicol and Harry Wylie’s book
"Between the Dying and the Dead: Dr. Jack Kevorkian’s Life and the
Battle to Legalize Euthanasia" is being used as source material.

Mazer said the project’s aim is not to attempt to change anyone’s views
on euthanasia but is intended to bring to light the many parts of
Kevorkian’s life that people don’t know.

"At the time of his sentence, he was probably the most recognized doctor
in the world," Mazer said. "Most of what we know of him has been told
through the media and headlines, but he’s a very complicated and complex
man, and a lot of things about his personality and background have never
really been shared with the public, including his great intelligence and
terrific sense of humor."

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