Something about Ms. Stern seems universal even on the promo poster. At first impression, an attractive, elderly, energetic woman; perhaps someone to aspire and relate to. So, we're shocked to find in the opening scene that Ms. Stern is asking her doctor for help end her life. This sort of juxtaposition between idealized expectations and the reality of the human experience are shown over and over through out the film. Beyond surprise, it's incredibly refreshing to find a film that attempts an honest depiction; showing both beauty and pain without averting or distorting the vision. Simply showing that both live and co-exist.
Ms. Stern's life is hardly empty, with engaged and loving family and friends close by. Yet, as the sole survivor of her family since the holocaust and recently her husband, she's tired and bereft psychically. On some level, her emphatic granddaughter vocalizes her struggle during a play, asking the audience 'how does one rest their soul," in this world.
I found the film profound in the subtlest of ways, touching me quietly and gracefully, leaving me to ponder questions I hadn't realized I need answers to.
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