When I Walk

When I Walk is a deeply immersive, personal, and empowering documentary released in 2013. Directed by Jason DaSilva, who is also one of the central figures in the movie, the film provides an intimate lens into the life of an individual faced with a highly debilitating disease. Alice Cook, Jason's partner, is also a key character in the film, offering an emotional backbone to the narrative with her unwavering support and strength.

The plot of the film is centered around Jason DaSilva himself, who is an ambitious, proficient, and resourceful filmmaker in his prime. His life takes an unexpected turn when at the young age of 25, he is diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis - a complex, degenerative disease. Rather than succumb to the despair and psychological trauma such a diagnosis might bring, Jason chooses to respond with fortitude.

The documentary follows DaSilva as he graphically captures his condition's progress while wrestling with the disturbing reality of being trapped inside his deteriorating body. The movie paints the painstakingly authentic picture of the disease, detailing its progressively crippling effects on Jason's body.

When I Walk is not a conventional film about illness; it is an autobiography of bravery, strength, and resilience. Through his challenge, Jason shows the audience that disability is universal - it can touch any person at any time and in any way, but it does not dictate one's potential for growth and success.

One of the highlights of the movie is the romance that blooms between Jason and Alice Cook. Alice met Jason after his diagnosis, and their relationship grows in tandem with the progression of his disease. Where some may turn away from the challenges and demands of dating someone with a degenerative disease, Alice Cook embraces it with warmth, demonstrating a level of strength, perseverance, and character that is both inspiring and powerful. She becomes his pillar of support as they face daunting difficulties together, showing viewers an incredibly touching and real story of love and commitment.

Through DaSilva's lens, viewers are also given an insight into the challenges that disabled people face on a daily basis. Oftentimes, these challenges are overlooked or underestimated by those with no direct experience, and the film seeks to rectify that. By illustrating real-life examples - like accessibility issues in public transport or the systemic problems in healthcare - the movie adds depth and perspective to the conversation about disability and societal infrastructure.

When I Walk chronicles DaSilva’s various efforts at rehabilitation and the coping mechanisms he adopts. He turns to eastern medicine, homeopathy, yoga, and medication-based therapies in his quest to manage his increasingly deteriorating powers of mobility. Simultaneously, he battles with depression, frustration, and the feeling of hopelessness, baring his vulnerabilities for the world to see with raw honesty. But even in his darkest moments, Jason's spirit is relentless and indomitable, an aspect of his character that shines brightly throughout the film.

The entire film is based on raw footage; the cast is the filmmaker’s family and friends, key places in his life, interspersed with his narration. When I Walk has a distinct intimate feel, pulling the audience into the shoes of Jason and allowing them to truly understand his struggles, experiences, and emotions. Drawing from an extensive range of footage, DaSilva weaves a profoundly personal narrative of a fundamental human experience - the struggle to preserve one's identity.

Production wise, the movie is approached with a sensitive yet determined gaze, and the storytelling has a personal touch, as the camera captures these intimate moments from DaSilva's perspective. The use of visual aesthetics in the film is poignant and purposeful, as it often parallels Jason's internal state.

Overall, When I Walk encapsulates a journey filled with tests of strength and character, touching on themes of disability, accessibility, love, and personal growth. Though it is a tale of illness and struggle, it is equally an inspiring and enlightening story about the human spirit's resilience. It is a testament to the fact that, even during the bleakest moments, one can still find hope, love, and meaning. The film encourages empathy, promotes a change in perspective, and urges us to expand our understanding of what it means to truly live.