A Fly On The Wall review: A deeply personal journey on death that offers healing amidst heartache

In this review, cinematic_beacon aka Rhea, writes about how the film A Fly On The Wall became a solace for her and healed something within her! 

We come into this Earth under circumstances beyond our control, but we can choose to leave it on our own terms- A Fly on the Wall has completely shifted my perspective on death. As someone who has seen cancer up close, I wish ‘Dignitas’ was a thing back when my grandmother was battling the disease. This documentary, curated beautifully by Shonali Bose and Nilesh Maniyar, is an ode to choices. It gives you the courage to take control of the steering wheel and drive away. 

Chika, the protagonist of this video essay, was in the fourth stage of cancer when he chose to contact Dignitas. They are an agency that helps you pass away through physician-assisted suicide, or in simpler terms, via euthanasia when you no longer have the will to struggle with a life-threatening illness. The process peacefully puts you to sleep without you having to undergo any pain, physical turmoil, or stress. I know how jarring this may sound to someone who hasn’t watched the film, but Chika makes it all look so easy. I was violently sobbing and jumping up and down my seat at the same time. Why? Because of this overly comical, optimistic, borderline sarcastic man who saw death as a celebration of life, and this process, a tranquil, painless way of leaving the Earth. 

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Filmed on his final days, the film is all about discussing Chika’s views, experiences, relationships, and ideologies. Bose, who stars in the documentary as one of his closest friends, is able to naturally bring out his wit, charm, and humour, making it such a breeze to sit through. An iPhone follows him around Zurich as he shares his greatest life lessons through piece-to-cameras, conversations, and poetically written postcards. His love for being ‘pro-choice’ really shines through in the film. 

Not all is hunky-dory, though, as Bose sheds light on her dilemma of capturing her friend’s death on camera. She oscillates between her craft and her relationship with Chika, almost not knowing whether spending time is the right decision or getting enough footage. Watching her navigate her ethical journey as a filmmaker while shooting the movie is eerie yet interesting. European summer, platonic love, beer and Indian food, friends, family, jokes, classical music- there's so much to take away from this film. 

Spontaneity, unabashed realness and bravery are what make A Fly on the Wall such an emotionally stimulating piece of work. It grabs you by the jugular and only lets go after watching you break into shambles. Chika is so likeable and pure that I wish to keep seeing more and more of him. I’m glad to have been part of the audience that witnessed the screening of such a progressive and fearless film. I’ll miss this old chap like my uncle. RIP you absolute angel, and congratulations to Shonali Bose and Nilesh Maniyar, you’ve made me extremely happy, and must I add, healed a little girl’s heart that broke 13 years ago. 

A Fly On The Wall had its Indian premiere at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival this year! 

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