A Mother’s Story, a Daughter’s Vision

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MOVIE REVIEW
Wisdom Gone Wild
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 24m
Director(s): Rea Tajiri
Where To Watch: Monday, November 20, 2023, at 10 pm; check local listings for broadcast; also available to stream without a PBS Passport membership until February 20, 2024, at pbs.org and the PBS App

RAVING REVIEW: WISDOM GONE WILD is a heartfelt journey through the complexities of aging, memory, and identity. Directed by Rea Tajiri, this film unfolds the multi-layered story of Rose Tajiri Noda's sixteen-year battle with dementia. It brilliantly blends art, music, and evocative storytelling, immersing the audience in a world where the past and present merge in a heartfelt exploration of life.

In WISDOM GONE WILD, director Rea Tajiri crafts a narrative that strays from the beaten path of linear storytelling. The film, reflecting the unpredictable journey of dementia, adopts a non-linear approach, enhancing the authenticity of Rose’s story and providing a lesson in empathetic filmmaking.

One of the most striking aspects of WISDOM GONE WILD is its celebration of life at every stage. Tajiri presents her mother not merely as someone struggling with dementia but as a vibrant heartbeat, rich in history and personal experiences. This approach brings a depth of intellect and emotion to the film, offering a unique perspective on aging and memory loss. The film becomes a poignant exploration of the Japanese-American experience, interlacing vivid memories of Rose’s past.

Tajiri’s treatment of this challenging subject is noteworthy. Steering clear of the usual caregiving narratives that often dwell on stress and frustration, she opts for a route filled with improvisation, humor, and a profound understanding of the transformative role of art and music. This elevates the film to an extraordinary work of art and provides solace and understanding for those who have shared the experience of caring for a loved one with dementia. The film shows the human story and what being part of something larger means.

WISDOM GONE WILD is a testament to Tajiri’s filmmaking prowess, showcasing her ability to deal with complex, emotionally charged topics with a unique mix of gentleness and wit. The film transcends the boundaries of traditional documentaries, celebrating life in its twilight years. Tajiri invites us to look beyond the conventional dementia narratives, offering a story that emphasizes the inherent value and dignity of every phase of life. This could have been a very by-the-numbers journey; instead, it took a narrative and reflected on what it means to be family.

Tajiri’s career, spanning over three decades, is marked by her commitment to exploring multi-generational memory and unearthing forgotten histories. Her work, characterized by its poetic subtlety and engagement with political themes, significantly contributes to the narrative of Nikkei's lives and experiences. WISDOM GONE WILD reflects Tajiri’s dedication to telling stories that resonate deeply with our most profound human experiences.

WISDOM GONE WILD is an intimate, groundbreaking journey. It’s a film that challenges audiences to view life differently, altering our perceptions of aging and dementia. Tajiri's work stands as a testament to the power of storytelling. Its impact is profound, both on the subjects it portrays and the viewers it engages. This film is essential for anyone who appreciates the art of cinema and the intricate, interwoven life narratives.

#WisdomGoneWildPBS

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[photo courtesy of GHOST PICTURES PRODUCTIONS, PBS]