MovieChat Forums > Off the Map (2007) Discussion > Autopsy [spoiler]

Autopsy [spoiler]

posted 17 years ago by pbdrc
4 replies | jump to latest

The single plot detail that doesn't square with reality -- voiceover states that "the authorities" pushed for an autopsy of Gibbs' body, but that Bo's mom "would have none of it." Surely, competent law enforcement would have demanded an autopsy be performed on an individual who presumably died alone out in the desert and who, furthermore, was living with a family who stood to gain from the subsequent sale of his artwork. Further, wouldn't Gibbs' own relatives have demanded an investigation?

[–] lhuffman_66 17 years ago

Despite what TV cop shows present...autopsies are not done on every body, even given the situations that you described. Many people absolutely do not want the bodies of their lvoed ones surgically sliced and diced. It is not unreasonable at all for the police to push for an autopsy, and yet have a vocal family member shoot it down. Especially if a doctor can support the cause of death reasonably through non-surgical means.

FYI...I know this first hand, concerning the death of a loved one.

Oh...and autopsies cost money...so unless there is a real need, they will also forego an autopsy.

[–] scandude20002000 16 years ago

Your first hand knowledge is incorrect. In many states there are laws concerning unattended death and in those cases the autopsy is mandatory.

[–] AKAlicious 16 years ago

Although I'm sure many would like to believe that state and federal laws are followed scrupulously--especially by law enforcement agencies--that is simply untrue. In places where unattended deaths require an autopsy, this does not mean they are always done. Each situation likely varies, and is probably dependent on the appearance of the scene, as well as the officers and people in attendance, and the police district that the body was found in. That aside, attempting to define a fictional film by the "box" of the norms that we understand in our reality is fair, but to make that box out of our laws and regulations--especially those that vary by state and are not well know by all Americans--is misguided. It is highly unlikely that that was part of the intention of the filmmakers.

[–] 16 years ago

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