Institute History
Description
The creative forces—an outstanding cast, a script adapted from an eloquent short story, and an actress turned filmmaker who has worked with some of the best directors in the business—don't begin to explain what the impressive Sarah Polley has accomplished in Away From Her. She has crafted a film that would be remarkable for a filmmaker even twice her age.
Away From Her relates a beautiful, yet unconventional, story of a couple coming to grips with the onset of memory loss. Fiona (Julie Christie) is well aware of what awaits her. To release her husband (Gordon Pinsent) from the inevitable fate of becoming her caretaker, she chooses to check herself into a home specializing in Alzheimer's patients. The couple must begin working through the complex transition from lovers to strangers.
Away From Her is like a love story in reverse. Through the commitment of the couple to respect each other's wishes, the history of their love becomes increasingly evident. You are witness to the incredible bond that has made them nearly inseparable for more than 45 years.
At the heart of Away From Her are exquisite performances by Christie and Pinsent in fully realized characters that are both heartbreaking and inspiring. And of course Polley, who proves herself a master at making even the smallest action captivating enough to mesmerize her audience.