Away from Her 2007

Grant and Fiona, a retired couple residing in the serene countryside of Brant County, Ontario, face a profound challenge when Fiona begins to lose her memory, signifying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. As the narrative unfolds, we delve into Grant’s inner thoughts, where his reflections on their marriage intertwine with his own past infidelities, ultimately shaping his actions regarding Fiona’s well-being.

When Fiona realizes that she poses a potential risk to herself, she chooses to enter a nursing home, where a strict policy prohibits any visitors for the initial 30 days to help patients “adjust” to their new surroundings. Although hesitant about this rule, Grant consents to it, driven by his deep love for Fiona. On their journey to the facility, Fiona confronts Grant about his previous infidelity during his time as a university professor. In a poignant moment, the couple shares a final intimate encounter before they part ways.

As the 30 days pass, Grant returns to visit Fiona, only to discover that she has forgotten him entirely and has formed a bond with Aubrey, a mute man in a wheelchair who serves as her new “coping partner” at the nursing home. During these visits, Grant finds solace in the companionship of a caregiver, who offers him valuable support and guidance.

However, witnessing Fiona’s growing attachment to Aubrey turns Grant into a troubled observer, grappling with the harsh reality that Fiona continues to forget him. He even starts to question whether her memory loss is a deliberate act designed to punish him for his past transgressions. Soon, circumstances change when Aubrey’s wife, Marian, removes him from the nursing home due to financial constraints. This event plunges Fiona into a deep depression, deteriorating both her physical and emotional health.

Touched by her plight, Grant seeks out Marian, hoping to facilitate a reunion between Fiona and Aubrey. He comes to the heart-wrenching conclusion that he would prefer to see Fiona content with another man rather than suffering in solitude. Initially reluctant, Marian eventually softens to Grant’s suggestion, leading to a delicate connection between them.

Over time, Grant continues to nurture his relationships with both Fiona and Marian, ultimately succeeding in arranging a visit for Aubrey to see Fiona once more. In a striking moment before introducing Aubrey into Fiona’s room, she unexpectedly remembers Grant and the love that they share. This brief yet powerful recollection allows them to embrace, capturing the essence of their enduring bond amidst life’s challenges.