Movie Review: "Away From Her"

This is a slightly disjointed story of a retired university professor, Grant, whose wife, Fiona, develops Alzheimer’s Disease. The movie slowly develops a complex marital relationship involving elements of infidelity, retribution, devotion and self-sacrifice. The subject of past and current infidelity is complex and not clear until the story’s end. The ending is somewhat muddled by Grant simultaneously performing a selfless act of love, but still serving his own needs. Julie Christie masterfully portrayed an aging Fiona through the initial and final stages of dementia. Olympia Dukakis’ performance was above average and reminiscent of her role as Clairee Belcher in Steel Magnolias.