Memory for Max, Claire, Ida and Company

Although DYING AT GRACE deals with the end of life, I found this much more depressing. Perhaps too depressing, as these people struggle with their own lack of recall. When Claire repeatedly forgets that her best friend has died, she has to relive the sorrow of that discovery over and over again. There is little you can do to alleviate the suffering of a deteriorating mind. There are some happy moments but overall this was more uncomfortable than poignant. However, it is quite empathetic.

Every bit as depressing as "Dying at Grace", but incredibly soulful and valuable, probably my second favorite Allan King after "A Married Couple". Dementia and Alzheimer's are all around us, but easy to ignore until it's too late. Claire's predicament is especially heart-rending.