Review of Blackbird (2020) by Brent_Marchant — 21 Sep 2020

The right to die is one of those topics that tends to divide moviegoers along rigidly defined lives, and that's very likely going to be the case about "Blackbird," an American remake of the 2014 Danish offering "Silent Heart.

" When a woman seriously afflicted with ALS sees what lies ahead for her, she decides to gather her family together for a final holiday celebration -- and a celebration of life -- as a prelude to ending her earthly existence.

It's a time to finish unfinished business, to say what's gone unsaid and to reverently honor our power of choice. This touching, thought-provoking, deeply moving drama examines the dynamics within a family wrestling with this notion while honestly and lovingly addressing the heartfelt feelings associated with such a profound and intentional choice.

While a few story elements don't work quite as well as they probably could have, most of the narrative is handled sensitively and realistically, all brought to life by the superb performances of its stellar ensemble, particularly Susan Sarandon, Sam Neill, Mia Wasikowska and Lindsay Duncan.

This release is will obviously disturb some viewers, but others, like yours truly, will be deeply moved -- and poignantly reminded that what we do with our lives (especially in the now) is up to us and no one else's business.