Supernova

Two stellar performances from Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci are the main draw for this study of the onset of dementia. The screenplay is delicate and nuanced, with a resolution that is both satisfying and poignant. A perfect counterpoint to the flood of superhero CGI monstrosities.

This movie may come across as slow and depressing to some, but I think it was painstakingly honest with the conflict and sadness that comes with the reality of dementia. Many are complaining of a lack of chemistry, but I did not find that to be the case. I thought this was a beautiful, romantic movie made even better by two extraordinary actors.

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.

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.