1/365: Wit

Starring:  Emma Thompson, Christopher Llyod, Audra McDonald

Genre: Drama

Discovery:  Recommendation by Netflix

Summary:  Made-for-TV movie about a college professor’s, Vivian (Emma Thompson), journey with stage 4 ovarian cancer.  She ultimately assesses her life as she goes through the rigorous treatment.

First Glance:  Enjoyed the way this movie unfolds.  Through a series of flashbacks & “talks” with the audience.  It is a deeply touching portrait of a woman going through a very intense treatment and how she ultimately impacts the world around her.

Deeper Look:  Maybe it was the fact I just got back from taking care of my Dad who has throat cancer.  Maybe it’s because Emma Thompson is an excellent actress. This movie made me cry.  The authentic way it explored cancer from being diagnosed, the treatment, isolation, fear, need for love and mortality.  So many parts stand out but there is one (SPOILER) where Vivian and her nurse talk about what will happen when she faces death, the tenderness really made me feel reflective.  It was a quiet moment of connection in a situation that is, ultimately, frightening.  (The behind-the-scenes gal in me has to say that the makeup as Vivian progresses through cancer is superbly done.)

What I Took Away from this Movie:  This is not a movie you “enjoy” but you will walk away with a renewed perspective of the preciousness of Life.

Final Glimpse: See it, if you can handle the journey with cancer.