About Alternate Endings: Six New Ways to Die in America (HBO)

Alternate Endings is an engaging HBO documentary released in 2019 that explores the different ways Americans are choosing to celebrate lives and memorialize death. The film provides a candid look at six unique stories of dying in today’s modern age. The subjects of the documentary range from joyful wakes to green burials, and everything in between, and it illustrates the innovative ways people create their own endings.

Making / Production

The film was envisioned and directed by Perri Peltz and Matthew O’Neill. They aimed to explore the different ways death could be approached and accepted. The production provides a thoughtful portrayal of people's last moments, and focuses on the humanity and emotional depth behind each unique story.

Actors

• Perri Peltz: In addition to directing, Perri Peltz shares her own journey and interacts with the subjects of the documentary, bringing out their stories with empathy and sensitivity.
• Matthew O’Neill: Besides co-directing, Matthew O'Neill's on-screen contribution invites viewers into the intimate and personal stories of individuals facing the end of their lives with courage and dignity.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was originally titled "How to Die in Oregon."
• The documentary was primarily shot across various locations in the United States, capturing the diverse cultural perspectives pertaining to death.
• In spite of approaching a typically somber subject, the documentary is filled with moments of humor, joy and life-affirming positivity.

Quotes

• "Some people want their death to be a reflection of their life. And however that happens, it’s okay." - Perri Peltz
• "It's a universal truth that we all die. So why not make the end as beautiful as the life we lived?" - Matthew O’Neill

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score was composed by Jeremy Turner, evoking an emotional resonance, balancing moments of grief, acceptance, and celebration.
• The soundtrack intricately weaves into the narratives, further enriching the viewer's experience.

Note: No specific awards or detailed information about the actors were found for this documentary. As it's a documentary, it primarily features real people narrating their stories rather than using actors in performing roles.