It's not often you see two Alzheimer's flicks in the same week. Lucky for us, Away From Herstars none other than Julie Christie: If anyone could make losing your mind attractive, even dignified, it's Christie. Ken Watanabe, with his remarkable mix of stoicism and charm, almost seems a fair match. But Memories of Tomorrow, which Watanabe both stars in and executive-produced, makes you wonder whether he wasn't more at home in Memoirs of a Geisha than Letters From Iwo Jima. Diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the still ripe age of 49, Watanabe, a high-powered advertising exec, decides to kill himself by leaping off the hospital roof. Vague family stereotypes asidehis aimless daughter gets pregnant out of wedlock; his wife finds independence selling potterythe film's low point may be the doctor's attempt to save Watanabe with a rambling speech on death and decay. Of course, it's no surprise that a melodrama would be melodramatic. But that doesn't mean it has to be gracelessas Away From Her showsand grace, that virtue most characteristic of Japanese film, is what Memories of Tomorrowcompletely lacks.
Join My Voice Nation for free stuff, film info & more!
Find everything you're looking for in your city
Find the best happy hour deals in your city
Get today's exclusive deals at savings of anywhere from 50-90%
Check out the hottest list of places and things to do around your city
