Michael James

I would honestly give it four stars, but given the amount of copy/pasted reviews from people who probably haven't even actually seen the film I figured I'd try to balance it out. Does the film leave you with a lot of questions? Yes. I think that's kind of the point. To make you think.

At some moments it may become a bit over complicated, but overall stellar performances offer plenty of subtextual colour and depth to a film that could easily be panned by anyone unwilling to immerse themselves in it. The characters are left to deal with their emotions as a group, having had the opportunity to do most of their most difficult soul searching before the film begins. This leaves room for a lot of things to be left unsaid and open for the viewer to add their own perspective and feelings to, creating, in my mind, an invitation to become part of this family on its final journey as a whole. At no point does it lack credulity, even in those moments where some family members create unnecessary drama. It is easy to understand that, despite having come to terms with what is going to happen, that they may still make a desperate attempt to cling to hope in order to assuage their fears and sadness. Indeed, even Lily’s husband is seen struggling despite his belief in this being the best option for her. As anyone who has had to help a loved one to pass will know, whether human or animal, the choice can be much easier to make than it is to execute and accept. Moving and thought provoking, without being preachy or pandering - this film offers a sympathetic view into how one family shows compassion toward one of its own and grows closer because of it.