Supernova

Greetings again from the darkness. Relationships end. Sometimes that brings relief, other times pain. For long time couple Sam and Tusker, the end is speeding towards them and they are each taking approaches on how best to handle. Writer-director Harry Macqueen delivers a tender story that is elevated by two extraordinary lead performances.

Colin Firth (Oscar winner, THE KING'S SPEECH, 2010) stars as Sam, a concert pianist, and Stanley Tucci (Oscar nominated, THE LOVELY BONES, 2009) co-stars as Tusker, a published novelist. These are arguably career best performances from both, and they complement each other so well on screen that we simply forget we are watching actors and accept the plight of this couple - of these two men. Driving along in their RV from a bygone era, they have the familiar exchanges that come from spending a lifetime together. We enjoy their banter, but it's Sam's opening line that sets the tone when he says, "We're not going back, you know". He's referring to a suitcase that Tusker didn't allow him to help pack, though soon enough we realize that line is even more to the point when it comes to their life journey.

As the bucolic northern England countryside passes by, it becomes evident that Tusker has early onset dementia. Though more present than not, he sometimes forgets a word, while in his worst moments doesn't know where he is or how he arrived. The purpose of the trip is two-fold: Sam is giving a 'comeback' concert after many years away from the circuit, and this is Tusker's farewell visit to family and friends. Of course, we (and Tusker) also recognize that this is likely the final fond memory this couple will make. While Sam is insistent that he can help Tusker remain productive, Tusker is well aware that he will quickly become a burden to the man he loves - and that's not something he wants to see happen.

Dementia is a slow fade, often over many years. Recognizing that it's happening to you is as painful as watching a loved one decline. People deal with this in their own way, and Macqueen's film handles it gently, while the actors exhibit much grace in their portrayals. The line, "It's not about fair. It's about love" really struck a nerve, and made it clear that these are two characters we like and believe in - inside a story that's heart-wrenching. Star-gazing plays a role here, and there's only a mild poke at Margaret Thatcher's policy towards gays. This isn't a movie of politics, but rather one of emotions and humanity. Not much happens here ... only everything. Best to reach for the stars, as "we're not going back."

*side note: I did have to look up "frog-marching" since it's used in conversation, and I had not previously heard the phrase. The film hits theaters on January 29, 2021 and Digital on February 16, 2021

What worked for me really well about this film was the fact that it kept focus throughout on telling a compelling and believable story. There was nothing flashy or over the top, and the central performances from Firth and Tucci were both gentle and very genuine. You can't help but find yourself asking what you would do in their situation.

There are some beautiful shots of the UK and the music pulls you into the story and has that wistful quality that makes you think about the flow of time.

This film may not be for everyone as it plays like a small independent film or something that could have been written for the stage. I personally found it beautifully filmed, acted, and thought provoking. This is the story of a gay couple in their early 60s coming to terms with one's terminal illness. Stanley Tucci and Colin Firth are so good and believable in their roles that you forget you are watching two well known actors. It's so refreshing to see a relationship between two older gay men on screen, especially with the authenticity of this one. The ending is powerful stuff and a reminder of what real love is in all its incredible complexity.

"Supernova" (2020 release from the UK; 93 min.) brings the story of Sam and his longtime partner Tusker. As the movie opens, Sam is driving their RV out on the countryside in northern England. It is clear that Tusker is not quite alright, and in fact it isn't long before we learn he is in the early stages of dementia... At this point we are 10 min. into the movie, but to tell you more of the plot would spoil your viewing experience, you'll just have to see for yourself how it all plays out.

Couple of comments: this is the second film directed by British actor Harry Macqueen (after "Hinterland"). Here he has two aging guys, a longtime couple, reflect on mortality and the fleeting life as they prepare for the day that Tusker will no longer remember anything at all. Hence they hit the road one more time to visit favorite spots and meet up with family and friends. There really isn't much of a "plot" to speak of, and that is quite alright. Watch instead the wonderful performances of the two leads: Colin Firth as the classical pianist Sam who in contemplating a return to the stage; and Stanley Tucci as the writer Tusker who, when told "You're still Tusker", laments that "No, I'm not. I just look like him", one of the many aching moments in the film. "Supernova" isn't the first, or last, film dealing with dementia and/or Alzheimer's issues. But "Supernova" does so in a quiet and restrained manner (the British way!), and along the way finds a path into your heart for these rich characters.

"Supernova" premiered at last Fall's San Sebastian film festival, and opened late January in select theaters. The Friday early evening screening where I saw this at turned out to be a private screening: I was literally the only person in the theater (and the rest of the movieplex pretty much looked like a ghost town--I honestly do not understand how movieplexes can continue to operate like this on a profitable basis. If you are in the mood for a tender film reflecting on mortality and the fleeting like and featuring great performances from Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci, I'd readily suggest you check this out, be it in the theater (doubtful at this point), on VOD, or eventually on DVD/Blu-ray, and draw your own conclusion.

Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci absolutely had me in tears towards the end. They sell the relationship better than I have seen in so other movies. But Stanley is always a great husband. This was a touching and romantic love story that was coming to an end. At least we were able to take the road trip with them.