Film Lens
Bleed Out is a 2018 HBO documentary that follows the story of Judie Burrows, who suffered severe complications from a hip surgery in 2009, leading to permanent brain damage. The film is directed by her son, Steve Burrows, and spans a decade, capturing the family's struggle with the aftermath of medical malpractice through archival footage, interviews, and courtroom testimonies. It investigates the events surrounding Judie's surgeries, including the decision to proceed with a partial hip replacement despite her use of blood thinners, which contributed to her critical condition.
The documentary presents a personal narrative intertwined with a critique of the American healthcare system. Steve Burrows seeks to uncover the truth behind his mother's treatment while pursuing a malpractice lawsuit against the medical facilities involved. The film includes real footage and undercover spy-cam recordings, emphasizing the institutional flaws in healthcare that led to his mother's suffering. It premiered on HBO on December 17, 2018, and received recognition for its impactful storytelling and social relevance.
Why Watch
- •Meet Judie Burrows, a retired teacher whose life changed drastically.
- •Follow Steve Burrows as he investigates medical malpractice.
- •See real footage and spy-cam recordings of hospital events.
Did You Know
•Judie Burrows fell into a coma after a hip surgery in 2009.
•The film took ten years to document the family's experience.
•Steve Burrows received over 5,000 letters of support after the film's release.
•Bleed Out won the Best Feature Documentary award from the Los Angeles Press Club in 2019.
Perfect For
Medical malpractice awarenessHealthcare system critiqueFamily stories