Elder rights lawyer Melissa Miller's fight for justice subject of new documentary

The documentary chronicles her legal battle against the corporate-owned nursing home industry

Elder rights lawyer Melissa Miller's fight for justice subject of new documentary

The National Film Board (NFB) has announced that Helene Klodawsky’s feature-length documentary on the life of elder rights lawyer Melissa Miller is set to open in cinemas across Canada starting March 21 in Vancouver.

In the documentary "Stolen Time," Miller takes center stage in a critical legal battle against the corporate-owned nursing home industry in Canada. This industry, often criticized for its lack of transparency and accountability, faces scrutiny through Miller's determined legal efforts. The film was produced by Intuitive Pictures in collaboration with the NFB.

According to the NFB, Miller's legal journey in "Stolen Time" is not just a personal crusade but a representation of a larger movement for justice and transparency in elder care. The documentary chronicles Miller’s most challenging case yet—a mass tort representing hundreds of families fighting some of the world’s most powerful long-term care corporations.

The documentary follows Miller as she represented hundreds of families against powerful long-term care corporations. These companies stand accused of neglecting their responsibilities to their elderly charges, prioritizing profits over people at a time when the global elderly population is booming. Miller's expertise and commitment to elder justice have made her a key figure in this documentary.

As "Stolen Time" unfolds, viewers are given a rare insight into the complexities of legal battles in the healthcare sector. The documentary highlights the urgent need for reform, showcasing the emotional and often heart-wrenching stories of families who have turned to the legal system as a last resort.  According to the NFB, Miller's advocacy brings hope to affected families and sheds light on the systemic issues plaguing elder care.

The national tour of "Stolen Time" is expected to facilitate discussions on elder justice, with screenings followed by panel discussions featuring experts in the field. These discussions aim to deepen the conversation around elder care, exploring solutions and advocating for change.

The film has screened at the Rendez-vous Québec Cinéma, which ran from February 21 to March 2. Other festival selections to date include the Atlantic International Film Festival in Halifax, the RIDM Montreal International Documentary Festival and the Victoria Film Festival.