Title: Documentaries Explore the Heartbreak and Beauty of Memory Loss
When Max Lugavere’s mother, Kathy, began showing signs of dementia, he embarked on a journey to document their relationship and find ways to help her. The result is “Little Empty Boxes,” a new documentary that captures the emotional rollercoaster of their experience. While the film delves into the links between nutrition, exercise, and brain health, its strongest moments are when it chronicles the bond between mother and son.
“Little Empty Boxes” is just one of many powerful documentaries that tackle the topic of memory loss. “The Eternal Memory,” nominated for an Oscar last year, follows the story of Chilean journalist Augusto Góngora and his wife as they navigate his decline into dementia. Directed by Maite Alberdi, the film explores the impact of memory loss on cultural heritage and personal relationships.
Another poignant documentary, “Tell Me Who I Am,” directed by Ed Perkins, tells the story of twin brothers Alex and Marcus Lewis, whose lives are forever changed by a motorcycle accident that leaves Alex with amnesia. As the brothers grapple with the truth about their past, their bond is put to the test in a heartbreaking and compelling narrative.
However, the most life-affirming film in this genre is “Dick Johnson Is Dead” on Netflix. Directed by Kirsten Johnson, the film follows her father, Dick Johnson, as he faces the challenges of dementia. Together, father and daughter explore different ways to humorously confront the inevitability of death while celebrating their relationship and the power of love and remembrance.
These documentaries offer a raw and honest look at the impact of memory loss on individuals and their loved ones, showcasing the resilience, love, and beauty that can emerge in the face of such heartbreaking circumstances.
