In the quiet town of Wanganui, New Zealand, acclaimed director Leanne Pooley unravels the complex human drama surrounding a criminal trial that enthralled a nation and the international community.

In the middle of a long night, Lesley Martin took her dying mother in her arms, pulled a pillow across her face and hugged her tightly until she stopped breathing. The decision to end her mother's life came after what had been a harrowing journey for the 36-year-old nurse.  When her mother, Joy, was diagnosed with bowel cancer, Lesley chose to quit her job to take care of her. During the time they spent together, Joy asked Lesley to make a promise to help her when it was “time”, and to make it quick.

The documentary is exceptional in its unparalleled access to Martin in the final months leading up to her trial and the ensuing courtroom drama, which became a focal point in the international voluntary euthanasia debate. The film follows the disintegration of Lesley’s marriage and the birth of a martyr. The Promise is the exceptional story of an ordinary woman facing extraordinary pressure. Will Lesley’s absolute faith in the justice system be rewarded with a not guilty verdict or will she be convicted of attempted murder?

This film received an Honourable Mention in the Best Feature Category in DOCNZ 2005 as well as "Best Documentary 2006 New Zealand Screen Awards" and "Best Camera 2006 New Zealand Screen Awards.”

LEARN MORE:
To purchase the film, visit Spacific Films.
Get more information about director Leanne Pooley.
Read an interview with Pooley from New Zealand's Listener magazine.