Aurora Borealis 2006

Duncan's Loss

Ten years after the death of his father, Duncan is still grappling with profound feelings of loss. The emotional burden affects all aspects of his life, profoundly influencing his relationships and outlook.

Grandparents' Home

Duncan's grandparents, Ronald and Ruth, share an apartment in Minneapolis that boasts a stunning view of the sky. Ronald frequently claims to have witnessed the mystical Northern Lights, providing a sense of magic amid their struggles.

Ronald's Illness

Ronald's Alzheimer's disease is progressively deteriorating his cognitive abilities, casting a shadow over the family's dynamics. The illness poses challenges that strain the emotional fabric of their lives.

Kate's Arrival

Amidst the unfolding family crisis, Kate enters the scene as the dedicated caregiver for Duncan's grandparents. Her presence proves vital in maintaining routine and offering support to the family during turbulent times.

Duncan's Job

Duncan takes on a job as a handyman in the apartment building where his grandparents live. This role becomes significant not only for gaining independence but also for fostering a meaningful relationship with Kate.

Blossoming Romance

As Duncan and Kate share more time together, their connection deepens into a blossoming romance. The emotional bond provides Duncan with solace amidst his family's struggles, offering him hope.

Support for Ron

With Ron's condition worsening, Duncan faces the emotional toll of supporting his grandfather. He grapples with the pain of seeing his loved one suffer and the weight of responsibility that bears down on him.

Confronting Shadows

Duncan remains haunted by the shadows of his past, particularly the absence of his father. Ron encourages him to embrace life and confront his fears, urging him to find a way out of his emotional darkness.

Kate's Departure Plans

Kate reveals her plans to move to San Diego, throwing Duncan into a whirlwind of emotions. The thought of losing her stirs feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty about his future.

Ron’s Despair

The situation escalates when Ron requests Duncan to secure shells for his shotgun, a signal of his escalating despair due to the torment of his illness. This moment signifies the gravity of Ron’s deteriorating condition and the emotional crisis for Duncan.

Tragic Loss

Tragedy strikes as Ronald succumbs to his heart condition, leading to a profound impact on Duncan. This loss forces Duncan to confront his emotional turmoil and unresolved feelings surrounding his family.

Saying Goodbye

In the wake of Ronald's death, Duncan must navigate the emotional landscape of saying goodbye to his grandfather. It becomes a pivotal moment that signals the end of an era in his life.

Renewed Determination

Despite Kate's impending move to San Diego, Duncan surprises everyone by showing up at her doorstep. This action symbolizes his renewed determination to break free from the emotional chains of his past.