Review of Away from Her (2007) by Mark A — 24 Apr 2009
This viewer is having some trouble deciding just how good this was. Julie Christie makes this film what it is, a poignant look at a woman who is slowly fading away from her husband and herself. The development is slow and steady as we see Fiona (Christie) begin to lose her train of thought, then her way, and finally her sense of who she is.
Gordon Pinsent, as Grant, aches for the woman he has loved and must be satisfied with merely watching her from across the room as she retreats farther and farther away from who she was. All of that is extremely well done.
Where the confusion arises is in the way the story is brought to a close. It seemed rushed at the end, and this viewer is not even sure what the final living arrangements will be, as this is only hinted at.
Whether his devotion to Fiona is driven by a selfless love, or a sense of guilt, his persistent involvement in Fiona's life makes one wish that someone like Grant will be there when this life draws to its inevitible conclusion.
Three and a half stars, rounded up for Ms Christie's performance.
This review of Away from Her (2007) was written by Mark A on 24 Apr 2009.
Away from Her has generally received very positive reviews.
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