As can be expected from Michael Moore, this documentary makes little effort to be fair, to cover all bases, to even reveal simple "big picture" statistics which would give one a more balanced understanding of the issue. That said, go see it. Why? Because as warped and blatantly anecdotal as it is, it does make strongly a point well in need of making – namely, health care in the states needs an overhaul.

As an essay on screen, Sicko could use crisper organizing. Moore makes point A, moves to point B, then makes point A again. Additionally, while investigations in health care systems abroad take the film on welcome trips overseas – some of those stays linger a bit too long.

In one of the more interesting "bits" (some might say "stunts"), Moore rounds up a group of September 11 volunteer rescuers who have since acquired some severe health conditions. We find that finding appropriate care for them in the US becomes a formidable task, while ironically, detainees in Guantanamo Bay are receiving top notch care. So Moore takes them in a boat south of the border to shout in vain at the guard posts of Guantanamo with a megaphone, "These are volunteers from 911, they are only asking for the same health care you're giving to detainees."

Only the horror stories in the US are brought to screen, while only the hunky-dory tales regarding the health care of other countries are portrayed. Lacking also would be a discussion of the tax structures of these countries. Still, I think this is an important film with very pertinent points. I recommend it.

Other Moore Films:
Fahrenheit 911
Bowling for Columbine

This film screened at a Laemmle Theatre.

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