FilmScene invites you to the latest in their Reel Representation film series, which champions underrepresented perspectives in the industry – including, in the case of today’s film, older adults and those struggling with dementia. This is a pay-what-you-can event; tickets are available online or at the FilmScene box office, while they last.
In Familiar Touch, Ruth (Kathleen Chalfant), a retired cook, prepares breakfast in her sunny and cozy kitchen, although small and puzzling errors now punctuate her comfortable routine. When her son (H. Jon Benjamin) arrives to dine with her, she mistakes him for a suitor. Their "date" takes them to an assisted living facility, which Ruth does not remember that she had previously selected for herself. Among her fellow memory care residents, Ruth feels lost and adrift. As she slowly begins to accept the warmth and support of care workers Vanessa (Carolyn Michelle) and Brian (Andy McQueen), she finds new ways to ground herself as her mind embarks on a journey all its own.
"There is great emotional heft to a relatively simple film, and a dignity and empathy afforded to dementia patients that feels astonishingly rare on-screen, where sensationalism tends to bring the house down."— Hannah Strong, Little White Lies
"Like any good coming-of-age movie, Familiar Touch never condescends. It takes its protagonist’s experience with dislocation, unrequited love and the desire to be understood quite seriously."—Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter
“Can be sad, without question, but it’s also salty and boundlessly tender."— Alison Willmore, New York Magazine
There will be a panel discussion after the 4 PM screening, moderated by Mary McCall.
Mary McCall has a doctorate in Human Development and Aging and has been studying aging and support services in countries around the world, while also supporting local individuals, couples and families in navigating mid- and late-life transitions from retirement to housing and care arrangements, as well as end-of-life journeys. She is a certified Advance Care Planning Facilitator, certified Life Coach and trained Death Doula. She is a member of the Death Collective of Eastern Iowa. She teaches classes on preparing for end of life and also facilitates the weekly caregiving support group at the senior center and also a community grief support group. She has a specialty in dementia and Alzheimer’s, both professionally and personally, having cared for her father in her home who had dementia and cancer.