Away From Her

“I think all we can aspire to in this situation is a little bit of grace.”– Fiona

This quiet, emotionally stirring movie was about 40% exactly what I thought it would be, and 60% beyond what I felt it could be.

My expectations were for a story about the heartrending struggle of watching a loved one slip into the unforgiving emptiness of dementia.  It certainly was that, but the “what’s more” is what really got me.  The glimpse of the troubled past of a now loving, solid, perhaps co-dependent marriage; the cheery detachment of the nurses and administrators; the endeavors of a devoted, guilt-stricken husband to grasp the few recognizable remnants inside the shell that used to be his wife. 

It is real, and it is heartbreaking.  I dare you not to break down at the elevator scene toward the end, when the play-by-play announcer walks past.  Yes, it’s the most contrived moment of the movie, but it worked.

The performances are perfect.  I mean, when Olympia Dukakis, who is wonderful, gives the least affecting performance, you know you’ve got something special.  For the life of me, I cannot imagine why Gordon Pinsent wasn’t nominated for an Oscar or Golden Globe, or a million film critics’ awards.

Obviously I recommend this movie– just remember to remove your mascara before you watch, and keep a box of tissues nearby.