Iris

Iris is a moving biographical drama from 2001 directed by Richard Eyre and starring luminaries of British cinema, Judi Dench, Jim Broadbent, and Kate Winslet. The film is an introspective exploration of the celebrated British novelist and philosopher Iris Murdoch’s life, the complexities of her thoughts, the potency of her writings, and her fight against Alzheimer's disease. Based on memoirs published by the writer's partner John Bayley, Iris deftly interweaves the past and present, juxtaposing the prime of their life together against the cruel worry of the twilight years.

The narrative is divided among vibrant flashbacks of the couple's younger years and the agony of the present, providing a peek into their intellectual and romantic alliance over time. The story unfolds with a sensitive look into Iris's life, constantly shifting between the stages of their love and partnership. Jim Broadbent, as the aged, caring, and loyal John Bayley, portrays the torment of watching a loved one suffer from Alzheimer's with heart-wrenching subtlety. He won an Academy Award for this compelling performance.

Star-studded as the cast might be, it's the promise of stepping into the life of such a compelling author that truly draws the viewer in. This deceptively complex story lavishly showcases Iris Murdoch's passion for words, her traits as an eccentric, free-spirited, and thinking woman, along with her lifelong commitment to partner John Bayley.

A young Iris is skillfully portrayed by Kate Winslet who perfectly embodies her as a vibrant, wild-at-heart, enigmatic, and academic individual, a stark contrast to the jubilant, yet unconquerable, elderly version of Iris played by Judi Dench. Dench brilliantly depicts Iris's gradual descent into the depths of Alzheimer's, crafting a gut-wrenching portrayal of a brilliant mind slowly being robbed of its spark.

The chemistry between all two sets of actors is palpable, as the relationships they portray reveal a love story that is at once beautiful and tragic. Bayley, who always held a fascination for the bright and charismatic Iris, stands by her even when Alzheimer’s begins to relentlessly steal away her light, memory by memory. The movie is, in its own way, a tribute to enduring love that survives over countless trials.

The film’s remarkable storytelling is amplified by its excellent production design and cinematography. The period cinematography superbly captures the youthful romance in 1950's Oxford, juxtaposing it with the melancholy realities of the present day. The framing of Iris’s story includes several intellectual debates, swimming as a symbol for freedom and liberation, as well as poignant moments at home, further humanizing Iris, and making one feel their journey alongside them.

Despite the narrative revolving around the tragic illness, the movie does not submit to the natural pull of sadness. There are sprinkles of genuine humor and warmth, mostly centered around John's unceasing love and affection for Iris. The portrayal of Iris's struggle with Alzheimer’s is not sugarcoated but treated with the gravity it deserves. It showcases the challenges, the heartache, but also the resilience, patience, and depth of love, both in its younger exploratory stages and in its more mature, testamentary phase.

Though Iris is, in essence, a tragic story, it doesn’t only delve into the pain but also beautifully portrays the courage with which both Iris and Bayley navigate through life’s harsh realities. The film is a testament to love and loyalty, and a tribute to a brilliant mind whose spark burnt out much too soon.

Whether you're a fan of Iris Murdoch’s works or not, this heart-rending depiction touches on the universal human themes of love, ageing, and illness with finesse and authenticity. The stellar performances by the lead actors make the narrative deeply affecting and memorable. Iris, thus, is not just a biographical drama but a poignant exploration of human relationships and the dwindling lights of a brilliant mind.