A Filmmaker’s Perspective: From Medicine to the Big Screen

As spring breathes new life into the world, France 3 presents a timely reminder of the dedication and resilience found in rural healthcare with the broadcast of Thomas Lilti’s “Country Doctor” tonight at 9:05 p.m. Lilti, a former general practitioner turned filmmaker, brings a unique authenticity to his work, drawing from his own experiences to portray the lives of healthcare professionals. This perspective is evident not only in “Country doctor” but also in his other acclaimed works, including the series Hippocrates, which offers a raw and often humorous look at life in a hospital emergency room, and the more recent A Serious Job (2023), which explores the world of education.

“Country Doctor”: More Than Just a Story

Released in 2016, “Country Doctor” quickly became a critical darling, resonating with audiences for its heartfelt portrayal of rural medicine. The film centers on Jean-Pierre, a dedicated country doctor who tirelessly serves his community. when faced with a life-altering diagnosis of an inoperable brain tumor, jean-Pierre stubbornly resists the need to step down, even as his colleague sends Nathalie to assist and potentially take over his practice. This narrative explores themes of dedication, mortality, and the challenges of maintaining healthcare access in rural areas, issues that remain highly relevant today.According to the World Health association, rural areas frequently enough face notable healthcare disparities, including shortages of healthcare professionals and limited access to specialized services.

François Cluzet’s portrayal of Jean-Pierre is especially poignant, drawing from his own personal experiences to embody the character’s unwavering commitment. Lilti himself has acknowledged the personal connection to the story, stating in the film’s press kit:

The country doctor is, more than ever, perceived as a positive hero. He embodies a major social role, making the link between generations, fighting against isolation and solitude of his patients.
Thomas Lilti, Director of “Country Doctor”

He further elaborated on his inspiration:

By making this film, I was keen to pay tribute to this job of which I became aware of the importance when, young doctor, I made replacements in Normandy or in the Cévennes. I had, then, the chance to rub shoulders with exceptional men and women.
Thomas Lilti,Director of “Country Doctor”

The Cast: A Blend of Professional and Non-Professional Actors

Alongside François Cluzet,Marianne Denicourt,known for her role in the series They Were Ten,delivers a compelling performance as Nathalie,the colleague who comes to assist Jean-Pierre. What sets “Country Doctor” apart is Lilti’s decision to cast non-professional actors in supporting roles, adding a layer of authenticity to the film. For example, the farmer who receives a bandage from Jean-Pierre at the beginning of the film is played by the actual owner of the farm where the scene was filmed. This commitment to realism extends to the inclusion of extras with mental disabilities, further enriching the film’s portrayal of rural life.