The Cinematheque

“A probing look at the origin story of an influential mind.”

Pat Mullen, POV Magazine

Sold Out. Limited tickets available at the box office the day of the screening.

Gabor Maté, physician and author of best-selling books In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts and When the Body Says No, is one of Canada’s most celebrated intellectuals. Known for his work on addiction, trauma, and harm reduction, in Physician, Heal Thyself Maté offers a rare glimpse into his personal life. Born in Hungary to a Jewish family, Maté candidly describes the impact of the Holocaust on his childhood and the lingering scar the experience left upon his psyche. Home videos and animated sequences complement stories of his youth as a student journalist and activist, his evolving career ambitions, and raising a family with his wife (the artist Rae Maté). Throughout the film, Maté’s empathy for vulnerable individuals shows up in myriad ways. Stretching across his many professional accomplishments and inner struggles, Maté’s reflections remind us that healing, emotional growth, and self-acceptance are a continual process, even for those who have achieved outward success.

Audience Award (Insights)
VIFF 2023

“An excellent portrait of Gabor Maté … and a great documentary.” Atom Egoyan

Post-screening discussion with Dr. Gabor Maté and director Asher Penn.

Moderated by Dr. Harry Karlinsky, series director