Burden of Genius

Relive the start of a medical revolution at Pittsburgh’s most advanced cinema. Burden of Genius tells the story of legendary transplant pioneer Dr. Thomas E. Starzl, who took what was once thought only the subject of science fiction—the idea of taking an organ from one person and transplanting it into another—and turned it into an everyday medical miracle, saving the lives of countless patients and transforming modern medicine.

Considered the “father of transplantation,” Starzl performed the world’s first successful liver transplant in 1967, but it wasn’t until he came to the University of Pittsburgh in 1981 that he perfected what was still considered an experimental procedure and helped what was then a Steel City struggling to reinvent itself become "the transplant capital of the world.”

Burden of Genius has captivated film festival audiences all over the world, winning Best Documentary prizes at the Cleveland International Film Festival and the Raw Science Film Festival in Los Angeles. Read what critics are saying:

• “Grade A. The film seamlessly weaves Starzl’s personal story and sacrifice with that of the scientific breakthroughs he made, all while tackling the issues and morality he confronted as he pushed the boundaries of medicine… Burden of Geniusextends beyond medicine; it taps into the human drive to do what has never been done before, to make history.” – The Cleveland Plain Dealer
• “One of the top 10 Movies” You’ll Want to Catch…. A documentary about a liver surgeon doesn’t sound like something you’ve gotta rush out and see. But add this absorbing documentary to your fest list. A fascinating film exploring a brilliant doctor’s fearless drive…and the hardships he endured at the hands of his critics.” – San Jose Mercury News
• “The incredible story of one man who tilted the scales monumentally in favor of mankind in the healthcare battle.” – HealthNews Texas

The Rangos Giant Cinema is honored to host the first public showings of the film for National Donate Life Month, appropriately in the town Starzl loved so much.

Science on Screen^® presentation – Sat., April 13 at 4 pm
The Sat., April 13 showing of Burden of Genius at 4 pm will include a special presentation on organ transplantation and a Q&A session after the film. More information coming soon!

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Reserving tickets in advance for this film is strongly encouraged. To purchase tickets for a group of 15+, please contact 412.237.3400.

Show Information

• No coupons, discounts or passes accepted.
• Senior and child prices are for 65 andover and 12 and under.
• Tickets are non-refundable.