‘Memory’ (2023) Review – A Restrained, Genuinely Moving Portrayal Of Dementia [LFF 2023]

This piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.

Movies dealing with dementia and other brain diseases play incredibly hard on people’s heartstrings. They bombard us with moments in which we see the devastating consequences of the disease, many tear-filled scenes and one big emotion after the other. There’s nothing wrong with portraying dementia in that particular way. Still, with Memory, writer/director Michel Franco (After Lucia) shows us that a film with a much more restrained approach can be as effective as – and maybe even more so – the over-the-top dramatic portrayals.

Despite not knowing her whole story, it’s clear that Sylvia (Jessica Chastain) had led an extremely rough life. She’s been sober for thirteen years, but her traumatic past and dark memories still haunt her. Sylvia’s unable to make peace and move on. This results in a troubled relationship with her sisters and mother and an overprotective bond with her teenage daughter, Anna (Brooke Timber). Her extremely secure flat feels more like a prison than a home of love and tranquillity. While her work doesn’t add sunshine to her life – she’s a caretaker for adults with a mental condition – Sylvia tries to stay as positive as possible. She might not like socializing for reasons that become obvious, but she decides to go to a high school reunion anyway.

It’s an evening that will profoundly impact her as she’s been followed home by total stranger Saul (Peter Sarsgaard). She confronts him when he’s still in front of her flat the day after. However, it seems that – despite Sylvia thinking the total opposite – Saul didn’t want to cause harm to her. He sadly has dementia and had no idea why he followed her home. He seems lost, confused and hurt, and while Sylvia doesn’t buy that at first, she decides to get to know him better as their memories impact their lives in multiple ways. Sylvia’s memories fill her life with fear, anxiety and trauma, while Saul’s memories slowly fade. Their relationship evolves gradually, even more so when Sylvia becomes his caretaker, and they soon develop feelings for each other. But how will their (fading) memories impact their relationship?

Instead of Memory being a three-part act – during which a woman and man meet, get to know each other and overcome/not overcome their problems – it’s more of a well-executed character study. Franco and his cast remind us of the impact of memories, how they shape us, and who we would be if we didn’t have them. By placing the two leads on the opposite spectrum – one can’t forget her bad memories while the other does everything he can to hold on to his – you get to put yourself into different situations. Do you allow your bad or fading memories to dictate who you are right now or do you refuse to let them define you?

The emotions in this movie won’t shock you as they’re not over the top or too dramatic. However, they will definitely move you. This is mainly because of how the stunning Chastain and Sarsgaard portray them. Chastain (Zero Dark Thirty) terrifically portrays Sylvia and beautifully reveals every character trait. Whether it’s as the woman who still has a troubled relationship with the bottle, the extremely overprotective mother, the broken young woman haunted by trauma, or the patient, loveable carer, Chastain captivates you in every scene she’s in.

While we’ve seen Sarsgaard in movies such as Kinsey and Shattered Glass, he’s an absolute revelation in this one. No wonder he won the Volpi Cup for Best Actor during the Venice Film Festival earlier this year. His portrayal of Saul is moving, humorous, and grounded. Despite Saul’s worsening condition, he still has his dry sense of humour and ability to love people. Saul has much to offer the world and people around him, and you instantly empathize with him. Chastain and Sarsgaard’s on-screen chemistry feels so honest and genuine in life. Once their characters meet, you can’t look away. 

In his latest work, Franco never overwhelms you with emotions – despite the susceptible and emotional topic – or a bombastic storyline. Instead, he chooses the minimalist approach, subtle and quiet narrative, genuine emotions, and grounded beautiful performances. It certainly pays off as Memory will undoubtedly touch you.

Unmoored played in the Special Presentations section at the BFI London Film Festival. There will be a repeat screening on the 9th of October. You can check last-minute availability here.

Director: Michel Franco

Writer: Michel Franco

Rated: NR

Runtime: 100m