Losing Breen

"Losing Breen" is an engaging, heartfelt drama movie released in 2017, directed by Doc Benson. Penned by Trish Basinger and Christopher Dietrick, the narrative explores the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease, not only on the individual afflicted but also on their loved ones. The movie centers on the Dunphy family, with special focus given to Breen, a warm and beautiful woman just entering the autumn of her life and portrayed with grace and warmth by Kimberly J. Richardson.

Breen is a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, at the heart of her family. As a central figure in their lives, Breen’s struggle with early-stage Alzheimer’s becomes their struggle as well, and the family must grapple with the heart-wrenching realities and challenges this life-altering disease presents. The story unfolds as her condition starts slipping from bewildering memory lapses into full-blown dementia, sparking a spectra of emotional reactions from denial and frustration to empathy, acceptance, and unconditional love.

Christopher Dietrick embodies the role of Breen’s doting husband Chuck, whose life is intertwined with Breen’s through years of shared dreams and memories. He becomes a poignant symbol of enduring love and commitment amidst life’s unanticipated trials. The passion he brings to his role is tangible and empathetic to those living in his reality.

Trish Basinger plays Breen’s daughter, Kelly. An integral part of this tale is Kelly’s transformation from a role as an adult child into the caregiver status as her mother's condition progresses. It is a challenging transition often experienced in real life by countless families confronting Alzheimer's. Basinger’s natural and emotional portrayal of Kelly illustrates the often unseen or undiscussed ordeal of watching a loved one slowly fade away, and the personal emotional toll it takes.

"Losing Breen" dives into something less specific but no less significant: the internal landscape of a family watching a loved one slip away. The impact on family dynamics is subtly but powerfully brought to life on screen, exploring the laughter, tears, anger, and tentative acceptance that comes with such a circumstance. The unraveling of the familiar fabric of love, memory, and connection is portrayed with an empathetic lens, underlining the human capacity for resilience, adaptation, and most importantly, enduring love.

The screenplay is insightful, doing an excellent job of blending the facts about Alzheimer’s disease with the emotional journey a family endures. Through this deeply moving narrative, the movie successfully sheds light on the dehumanizing aspects of the disease and the vast impact it has on the person diagnosed and their loved ones.

Through brilliant performances and direction, the film manages to tap into universal themes of love, loss, acceptance, resilience, and the value of human connections. It presents a poignant examination of the disease, capturing the debilitating effects of Alzheimer’s without simplifying or glamorizing its impacts.

"Losing Breen" resonates as a reflection of real-life struggles many families face, making it not just a film to watch, but an experience to resonate with. This is an engaging, eye-opening film that provokes thought, understanding, and empathy for those dealing with Alzheimer’s and the vast web of lives it touches.

Framed by a stunning cinematographic lens, "Losing Breen" balances beauty and stark reality, shining a light on Alzheimer's harsh shadows while celebrating the flickers of positivity and hope that insist on shining through. Through powerful performances and an evocative script, the audience is introduced to the full spectrum of emotions – from sorrow and anger to moments of joy and shared laughter.

Overall, "Losing Breen" is a true gem within its genre, offering an unparalleled look into the life and emotions of an Alzheimer's patient and their family. It is a must-watch film for anyone seeking a sensitive and authentic representation of the personal struggles associated with Alzheimer’s disease. It serves to raise awareness, promote understanding, and above all, highlight the power of family bonds and love against the most daunting odds. While the story is heart-wrenching, it is told with a tender touch and eye toward hope, offering viewers an emotional, gut-punch of a drama that will stay with them long after the credits roll.