I have been attending movies for more than 40 years (I am now 72), and "The Father" is one of the most riveting, devastating, and depressing I have ever seen in my lifetime. It was difficult to follow the story at times, but I seriously doubt if dementia has ever been portrayed on screen as it is here. There is no sugarcoating what Anthony Hopkins endures during the course of the film, for he becomes more and more addled as the story moves along. We are subjected to his anguish and confusion as he endures a whole panoply of different people, names, and details the other characters provide him. One really must have a strong stomach to sit through this film and put up with his mind feeds him. As disappointed as I was that Chadwick Boseman failed to win the Oscar, I am convinced that the voters made a very wise decision to hand over to Mr. Hopkins this honor for a performance that is truly one for the ages. Bravo to him and the rest of the stellar cast for a memorable movie!