Pay or Die is an 2023 American documentary film, directed and produced by Scott Alexander Ruderman and Rachael Dyer. It explores three families struggling to afford insulin, and their attempts to make a difference. Sarah Silverman serves as an executive producer.
It had its world premiere at South by Southwest on March 11, 2023, and was released in a limited release on November 1, 2023, by MTV Documentary Films, prior to streaming on Paramount+ on November 14, 2023.
Plot
Three families struggle to afford insulin, one family battles lawmakers in Minnesota to regulate insulin prices, following the death of their son who was unable to afford the medication, a mother and daughter rebuilding their lives after spending their money on insulin, and a young adult diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Production
In February 2022, it was announced Rachael Dyer and Scott Alexander Ruderman would direct the film, with Sarah Silverman set to executive produce.
Release
The film had its world premiere at South by Southwest on March 11, 2023. Shortly after, MTV Documentary Films acquired distribution rights to the film. It was released in a limited release on November 1, 2023, by MTV Documentary Films, prior to streaming on Paramount+ on November 14, 2023.
Reception
On Rotten Tomatoes it has a 91% approval rating based on reviews from 11 critics, with an average rating of 7.20/10.