The Father (Amazon Prime)
Antony Hopkins is the tail end of legendary British actors:
Olivie, Geilgud, O’Toole and Burton. His performances are masterful whether in
lead or in supporting roles. His character, Anthony, who suffers from dementia
is diametrically opposed to the vibrantly intelligent Anthony Hopkins of 83
years. Hopkins portrayal is painfully accurate.
For people of a certain age this movie will have a chilling
effect. A neurologist once told me when you walk into a room and you forget why you went there,
that’s OK. When you cannot find your misplaced phone, no problem. But when you
come home remove your shoes and put them in the freezer then you have a
problem. Anthony’s condition is beyond kitchen appliances. Antony slips in and
out of a state of lucidness to befuddlement
with vacant eyes and fingers fumbling for his missing watch. Dementia is a thief,
robbing you of memories of past and
present. Certain words you have known all your life can not escape the tip of
your tongue.
The direction and editing of the film gives a visceral example
of dementia. In Antony’s mind different people are the same person and his
residence is of uncertain ownership or location. A closest is a doorway to
another place. It is a bit confusing to keep up with the film.
Olivia Colman (Favorite, and the Queen in the Crown)
is the anguished daughter. In the post nuclear family her dilemma is whether to
live her life or care for her father. His deteriorating condition is a challenge
to her and a carousel of spent caretakers. Colman’s anxiety is relatable to
caregivers or to people expecting care. She gives a bravi performs to a demanding
role.
This is not an easy movie to watch. It is an excellent movie
with outstanding performances. Both Hopkins and Colman are nominated for 2020 Academy
Awards. As they should be.
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