PLOT: In an effort to enjoy the time they have left after a diagnosis of dementia, two men embark on a road trip in hopes to spend as many moments together as they can before the memory has completely disappeared.
REVIEW: There's beauty in simplicity. One such example of that is the sublime new feature Supernova, written and directed by Harry Macqueen. The heart of the story revolves around Sam and Tusker, a loving couple dealing with the challenges of a dementia diagnosis. It is a bittersweet tale about dealing with a suffering loved one, and yet this story is funny, charming, and heartbreaking all at the same time. It doesn't hurt that the two actors in the spotlight happen to be Stanley Tucci and Colin Firth. The two men share a loving and tender on-screen romance, one that is honest and will connect to anyone that has ever dealt with this kind of situation in their lives.
When we first meet Sam (Firth) and Tusker (Tucci), they're taking out their old RV for a road trip where Sam will be playing at a piano recital. It soon becomes clear that Tusker is dealing with the effects of dementia. Knowing full well that his diagnosis is getting worse, the two attempt to spend as much time together before his memory has faded. As the two continue on their road trip, Sam discovers that Tusker hasn't been completely honest about his plans for the future they both must face. It all leads to a story of loving someone you know who is about to forget everything you had together, and it will likely break your heart a little.
Rarely do I connect my personal life to a review, but on occasion, it feels necessary. Watching someone dealing with this diagnosis is something I understand all too well. If you've been through it – which I imagine many of you have – this is going to be an emotional experience. I'd imagine that Macqueen is likely familiar with this as he explores the subject matter with grace and beauty. The locations that the two travel adds to the experience, as does the smartly written script. Instead of relying on an over sentimentalized weepy, Supernova maneuvers through the challenges that the couple must face with an honest and engaging warmth. As I stated at the beginning of the review, the simplicity makes it all the more compelling.
Would this film work with other actors playing the leading roles? I'd have to say it probably would due to Macqueen's smart script and direction. However, it's clear that the incredibly talented Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci bring their best to these two characters. The two actors are fantastic together. While this story isn't complicated with shouting matches and overdramatized scenery-chewing, it's the quiet power making this all the more affective thanks to these two brilliant performances. Their on-screen romance is tender and truthful. It's never a case of one actor outshined by another. No, the two are equally compelling. The two actors disappear into their roles with ease, creating a bond that is absolute and relatable.
Another impressive aspect is the musical score by Keaton Henson. The piano and orchestral sound effectively connect you to Sam and Tusker. It's a gorgeous score, one that is as much a character as the landscape and the two leading men. It all works together for a final act that may warrant a box of tissues nearby. With just over an hour and a half run time, this modern-day love story manages to be just as timeless as it is relevant. My one minor complaint may be that the film ends too quickly as I would have liked to spend a bit more time with the characters and the happiness they share.
Supernova is a quietly profound exploration of love and ultimately loss of self. Stanley Tucci and Colin Firth deliver performances that are equally complex and inspired. There is never a moment where you won't believe that they wholeheartedly adore each other. While it will likely be emotionally intense to watch for those of you who have dealt – or are currently dealing with – a dementia diagnosis, it may help you feel less alone. Harry Macqueen's second directorial effort is a well written and moving example of how to tell a heartbreaking story without resorting to false sentimentality. This provocative and heartfelt feature is well worth investing your time to take in and embrace. And yeah, it may inspire you to love and hold the ones that you share your own life with.