Away from Her (2007)

"Away from Her," a poignant 2007 film produced by Foundry Films and Capri Releasing, delicately explores the complexities of love and memory through the lens of Alzheimer's disease. Directed by Sarah Polley and based on Alice Munro's short story "The Bear Came Over the Mountain," the film stars Julie Christie and Gordon Pinsent as Fiona and Grant, a long-married couple facing the heart-wrenching reality of Fiona's fading memory. As Fiona's condition deteriorates, she is admitted to a care facility where she eventually forms a bond with another patient, Aubrey, portrayed by Michael Murphy. This unexpected development forces Grant to confront his own feelings of jealousy, loss, and the true nature of devotion. The film's strength lies in its understated yet powerful performances, particularly Julie Christie's Oscar-nominated portrayal of Fiona, which captures the essence of a woman slowly losing her grip on reality. Gordon Pinsent's Grant is equally compelling, embodying the quiet despair and resilience of a husband determined to honor his vows, even as his wife drifts away. The cinematography, by Luc Montpellier, beautifully complements the narrative, with the stark Canadian landscapes serving as a metaphor for the emotional isolation experienced by the characters. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the emotional journey of its protagonists. "Away from Her" also delves into the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding Alzheimer's care, particularly the decision to place a loved one in a facility. The film does not shy away from the painful realities of the disease, yet it maintains a tone of empathy and understanding. The interactions between Fiona and Aubrey, and later between Grant and Aubrey's wife Marian (played by Olympia Dukakis), highlight the ripple effects of Alzheimer's on all those involved. These relationships underscore the film's central theme: the enduring nature of love, even when memory fails. Ultimately, "Away from Her" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of memory on our lives. It challenges viewers to consider what it means to truly love someone, especially when faced with the inevitability of loss. The film's sensitive handling of its subject matter, combined with its exceptional performances and visual storytelling, make it a deeply moving and thought-provoking cinematic experience.