Still Mine

How could 43 out of 57 reviewers rate this movie 8 or higher and yet produce a cumulative score of only 4.8? Still Mine was the SF Cinema Club's selection yesterday. Not a dry eye in the theater (though I swear mine was allergies). It's Amour with feeling, and a Canadian sensibility, i.e., more like Away from Her, the other Canadian film that deals with aging and dementia, than the steely, unsentimental Amour. Cromwell is gigantic. Is there any other male actor of his age who says more with less? And Campbell Scott proves what they say about no small roles, only small actors. His is minor--but flawless in its understatement. This movie may not crack the big time, but that in no way should diminish its beauty, power, and lasting impact on those who seek it out.

Watch this and find out! The lead actors playing the elderly couple are extraordinary. Not only about what marriage used to mean, commitment and deep intimacy and complimentary gender roles, And how well so many men and women used to work together on their own for survival. But also a profound and clear picture of what we are losing in society, independence, personal responsibility, self growth, creativity and the satisfaction of knowing yourself and doing things on your own. And how it is nearly impossible or even illegal to live that way today. A journey back when D.I.Y a necessity not a luxury. And all of it without some need to believe some hocus pocus Love commitment and personal self security based on your ability to actually do things for yourself. Almost lost nowadays.

On occasions supporting actors carry the weight of the movie. James Cromwell is the perfect example of this. After decades of being a supporting actor, Cromwell does 'Still Mine' as his first movie in a lead role. It was long due for him to be the star of a film. No only he does a marvelous job playing Craig Morrisson but also stars Genevieve Bujold as Cromwell's wife. This two awesome actors play an elder couple who want and start to build a house against local authorities laws. Never a dull moment throughout the movie, and totally worth the while. It will take you on a journey of watching an elder man take care of his wife and do whatever he has to, so she is comfortable for the remain of her days

Still Mine is an example of why sometimes laws and rules can mean a lost of freedom.

The good. Compelling and touching story. Well built scenario. Nice photography. All together, a solid film.

The actors. The whole cast gave a spot on performance, but James Cromwell shows himself as a true star here with a very attaching character.

The bad. Most of the plot elements have been seen many times in different forms over the years. Even though the mix is unique, you get an overall sense of déjà vu.

The ugly. Nothing.

The result. A simple tale that can resonate with anybody. Don't expect action or great drama, and you'll be pleasantly entertained.

I remember reading in the Globe & Mail in the fall of 2010 about the people and events on which the screenplay of STILL was written by Michael McGowan and was delighted to see the story come to the screen less than two years later. It is so refreshing to see an honest film with no gimmicks. Produced with a budget of just $3M, filmed in northern Ontario and New Brunswick, it is a delight. It isn't easy to deal with the topic of dementia but McGowan handles it gracefully, with gentle humour and respect. Geneviève Bujold and James Cromwell give outstanding performances. It is a heartwarming story for sure, and garnered much applause from the audience.