Alzheimer’s Explored: Beyond Diagnosis, Into the Soul

Read Time:3 Minute, 26 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Eternal Memory (La memoria infinita)
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 24m
Director(s): Maite Alberdi
Language: Spanish with English subtitles
Where To Watch: opens exclusively on August 18, 2023, in Los Angeles at the Laemmle Royal and will also open in New York on August 11 and San Francisco on August 18, with a national rollout to follow in select cities distributed by MTV Documentary Films.

RAVING REVIEW: Ready for a cinematic journey that dives deep into the human soul and explores the ethereal essence of memory? Look no further than THE ETERNAL MEMORY. Directed by Maite Alberdi, this film elegantly transcends the traditional boundaries of documentaries, offering an unprecedented window into love, legacy, and the delicate dance of remembering and forgetting.

Step into the private world of Paulina Urrutia and Augusto Góngora, a real-life couple grappling with the complexities of Alzheimer's. What sets this film apart is how it takes Augusto's condition beyond the confines of a medical diagnosis. It becomes a compelling metaphor for the intricate preservation of personal memories and an entire nation's history, filled with echoes of Chile's past.

Alberdi carefully crafts THE ETERNAL MEMORY, interweaving threads of the personal and political. She transforms Augusto's fading recollections and Chile's turbulent history into a vibrant mosaic of love, resilience, and reflection. Rather than merely documenting Alzheimer's, Alberdi elevates it into an exploration of how we cling to memories within our hearts and the shared memory of a nation.

The film's narrative sweeps us into the daily existence of Paulina and Augusto, revealing the tender ways Paulina strives to spark her husband's memory. Interwoven with evocative archival footage, the portrayal of their lives offers a touching and honest view of living with Alzheimer's. Their journey, marked by humanity's boundless resilience and the unbreakable bonds of love, tugs at the heartstrings.

Amidst the backdrop of a global pandemic, THE ETERNAL MEMORY resonates universally. Through depicting Paulina's diverse roles as a partner, caregiver, and filmmaker, the film captures the essence of human adaptability and the stirring power of connections, even in the bleakest times. Visual storytelling and seamless transitions guide the viewer through an emotional labyrinth, captivating and moving in equal measure.

Alberdi's thoughtful crafting of this film invites us to watch and ponder and engage. It's not simply a film about Alzheimer's or a historical account; it's a heartfelt exploration that resonates, a tribute that echoes, and a testament to life's fleeting moments.

With its unique blend of grace, depth, and accessibility, THE ETERNAL MEMORY beckons to seasoned film lovers and casual viewers alike. It doesn't just capture; it connects, enchants, and lingers, spotlighting the intricate intersection of life, memory, and identity. Here's a piece of cinema that speaks not only to the mind but to the very soul, a journey you will want to take advantage of.

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[photo courtesy of MTV DOCUMENTARY FILMS]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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