MovieChat Forums > Still Alice (2015) Discussion > Iris

Iris

posted 8 years ago by intofilm
3 replies | jump to latest

I think a better treatment of the subject of Altzheimers is the 2001 British film "Iris" starring Judy Dench as the famous author Iris Murdoch. "Iris" was much grittier and more realistic. It also showed more of the latter stages, and it had a fuller representation of the problems of being a loving husband in this situation. It wasn't nearly as attractive in a Hollywood-ish way, of course. J.M. does a great job but she doesn't hold a candle to the depth that Judy Dench managed to portray, in my opinion. There are so many scenes in "Iris" that have remained seared in my memory 15 years later, and I don't expect the same effect will result from "Still Alice."
Unfortunately "Iris" is not a film that would appeal to a mass U.S. audience, because it IS so gritty and realistic, and doesn't have any Hollywood polish.

[–] Victoriavixen 8 years ago

I think both Iris and Still Alice are excellent films about Alzheimer's Disease. You are right, though, about the contrast/comparison of the two main character's portrayal of AD patients. Both were incredibly heartbreaking.

[–] Aim-JE 8 years ago

I saw and loved both, but the early onset, familial type JM's character had made it more...in your face, I guess, because of her and her children's ages. Murdoch was diagnosed when she was 78; only two years before her death. Alice was diagnosed when she was 50 and deteriorated rapidly, but was physically healthy with many years of life ahead of her. Unfortunately, the quality of that life - or lack thereof - is what was tragic.
I'm just glad Alice is a fictional character. The short time we saw Iris struggling was heartbreaking enough. Imagine that time multiplied by ten.

"Are you suggesting that coconuts migrate?"

[–] katydb65 8 years ago

She was killed used Alzheimer's as an excuse.

Many believe she was poisoned with B12 vitamins that mimic heavy blood ailments like ALS MS Cancer and the like.

Rupert Murdock is not a real Murdock by the way.