The story of Henrietta Lacks and her immortal cells is a fascinating one, and the documentary “The Way of All Flesh” does an excellent job of exploring the history and impact of her cells on modern medicine. Directed by Adam Curtis, the film takes viewers on a journey through time, chronicling the life and legacy of Henrietta Lacks and her cells, known as HeLa cells.
The film begins with the story of how Henrietta Lacks, a poor African-American woman from Baltimore, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 1951. During her treatment, doctors at Johns Hopkins Hospital took a sample of her tumor cells without her knowledge or consent. These cells were unlike any others that had been seen before – they were able to survive and multiply outside of the body, and were dubbed “immortal” by scientists.
The film delves into the ethical issues surrounding the taking of Henrietta’s cells, as well as the exploitation of her family and their lack of knowledge about the widespread use of her cells in scientific research. It also highlights the racism and discrimination that Henrietta and her family faced, both in life and in death.
The impact of HeLa cells on modern medicine is vast and far-reaching. They have been used in the development of numerous medical breakthroughs, including the polio vaccine, in vitro fertilization, and cancer treatments. The documentary does an excellent job of showcasing the many ways in which HeLa cells have changed the world, while also exploring the darker side of their discovery and use.
One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of the political and cultural implications of HeLa cells. The cells became intertwined with the Cold War and the race for scientific supremacy between the US and the USSR. The film also examines the way in which Henrietta’s story and her cells have been used to promote various agendas and ideologies, including those of the civil rights movement and the anti-abortion movement.
Overall, “The Way of All Flesh” is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on an important but often overlooked chapter in the history of science and medicine. It does an excellent job of balancing scientific information with human interest, making it accessible to both experts and laypeople. By telling the story of Henrietta Lacks and her immortal cells, the film reminds us of the often-unseen contributions and sacrifices of ordinary people to scientific progress and encourages us to think more deeply about the ethical implications of scientific research.
