James Cromwell and Genevieve Bujold in “Still Mine.” (Courtesy of Samuel Goldwyn Film)
With the heartbreaking tale told by Micheal Hanake in 2012’s “Amour,” which eventually won the 2013 Academy award for Best Foreign Film, and the equally heartbreaking, but ultimately more uplifting story, told in the newly released “Still Mine,” one could assume that in the cinematic landscape, growing older is tough.
“Still Mine” draws its source material from a true story of an aging New Brunswick couple and the struggle that ensues when the patriarchal Craig Morrison, played brilliantly by James Cromwell, decides to construct a smaller house for himself and wife Irene, played by Genevieve Bujold, who is suffering from memory loss.
In true David vs. Goliath fashion, Craig’s project is halted by the city of New Brunswick and the man must fight to build the home himself and provide a manageable life for his wife’s deteriorating condition.
James Cromwell is the film’s true savoir with a powerful performance that reminds audiences why he was nominated for an Oscar, even it was 17 years ago and for his role in “Babe.” Cromwell takes his character and injects him with emotion while acting as the major driver for the action and, of course, reaction. Of course, most of the story’s most heartfelt emotion comes from Genevieve Bujold’s Irene. With her mental livelihood fading away and her ultimate quality of life in question, Bujold captures the essence of fleeting conscience and portrays human emotion of fear and confusion that follow her diagnosis.
Perhaps the one downfall of “Still Mine” comes from its schmaltzy direction. Led by Mihcael McGowan, who also wrote the film, “Still Mine” sometimes lingers in its most emotional moments too long, has a score that ultimately overwhelms and build a climax reminiscent of a Lifetime movie.
However, schaltz aside, “Still Mine” is a compelling feature that makes the idea of growing old together with someone, a feat that is certainly tough, actually bearable.
“Still Mine” is currently playing at the Magnolia Theater in Dallas’ West Village.
