STILL MINE   3.3***

       A movie that unfolds in a slow, steady, mostly uneventful way is risky in the age of big blockbuster action films.  But like an octogenarian approaching a crisis with the calm that life experience affords, “Still Mine” doesn’t feel the need to employ whistles and  bells or bombs, superheroes or zombies to make its quietly effective mark.

 

"Still Mine" is a thoughtful and sensitive Canadian-made movie, based on the true story of Craig Morrison and his wife Irene, played in the movie by James Cromwell and Genevieve Bujold. It's in many ways a gentle and slow-paced movie that combines two generally unrelated subject matters: growing old, and fighting the bureaucracy. Irene has dementia, and is gradually losing her memory. She is still sharp at cards but falls down stairs and can’t find her way to the bathroom To keep her safe, Craig decides to build a new smaller 1 story house, but gets into trouble with local building inspectors in a small town in New Brunswick, who issue a stop work order until Craig agrees to do things their way. Craig knows what he's doing, and the house he's building is perfectly safe, but the bureaucracy only sees that he hasn't followed all the rules. Meanwhile, as Craig battles the bureaucracy, he also deals with Irene's decline - most often sensitively and lovingly, but sometimes - and understandably - being overwhelmed and lashing out at her.

The performances from Cromwell and Bujold are excellent.  Craig is masterfully played by less-is-more James Cromwell who won a Canadian Screen Award (sort of the Canadian version of an Oscar) as Best Actor for his performance. Bujold plays Irene with dignified realism and humor, never a pitiable figure, just a familiar one. They brought their characters to life, and as a viewer you cared about Craig and Irene.

 

The decision to shoot in New Brunswick, Canada gives the film authenticity and beauty. In many ways the picture is conventionally shot, no stylistic flourishes, no fanfare, but it suits the tone of the piece. Michael  McGowan, the writer and Director of the movie, understands the power of words and character. In his actors he has two giants who bring this wonderful story to life.

 

Movies like this hold a special place in my heart. It tells a story with morals and emphasizes the goodness of humanity. No explosions, no sex, no over the top special effects. Just a good story with great acting.

 

Clark

 

NOTE: This movie came out in 2013 and somehow slipped by me. It’s an  independent film and was not advertised very well if at all. You should be able find it on Netflix or TV…make the effort to find and watch it… it’s worth it !!!