REVIEW: Supernova

25 September 2021

One man’s illness causes his partner to think about what life would be like without him; a harsh but imminent reality.

Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci in Supernova / Picture Credit: StudioCanal

The synopsis

Tusker (Stanley Tucci) and his partner Sam (Colin Firth) embark on a stunning road trip, admiring the scenery and the lands before them.

As they travel to see Sam’s sister deep in the countryside, Tusker’s dementia gets worse by the day; it may not always be apparent, but he begins to forget how to do certain things, and has taken to wondering off.

We follow the couple as Sam struggles to come to terms with Tusker’s illness, and we see both of them try to live with what’s happening, and what will happen...

So, what did I think?

The plot of Supernova seemed simple enough, but once I began to watch Sam and Tusker’s story unfold, I watched more intently every minute, and my heart went out to not just them, but those in the real world who deal with illnesses like Tusker’s.

Supernova followed the married couple, Sam and Tusker, as they travelled the countryside in their RV, along with their dog. The film opened up to the pair having a small disagreement while driving, which is reminiscent of many couples.

Almost immediately, I saw their connection and their love for one another; it was clear that they had so many years behind them, and have been together for a long time. This was pivotal to the rest of the film, as without this feeling of realism in regard to their relationship, the movie would have fallen flat.

Setting the scene for the narrative by having them bicker in a light, comical way was the perfect way to introduce the characters, as I was quickly invested in them and wanted things to pan out for the both of them.

Despite the film having a rather slow pace, some scenes perhaps going on a little too long, and some parts being ever so slightly dull, Sam and Tusker’s journey made me tear up and think about life as it is, and reminded me to be grateful; that’s the mark of a good movie, when it challenges you to think about yourself and smile.

The movie also had some stunning-looking scenes; the brightness of the lake they visit, the cramped yet perfect camper van, and the lush green woods all created a sense of love and hope, which was thoroughly appreciated.

The best part about Supernova, above its stunning cinematography, simple yet impactful dialogue, and the beautiful scenery surrounding them at every moment, was Firth and Tucci’s acting.

While both actors have found fame in their own right, Supernova has brought them together and asked them to create a believable relationship; one with struggles and melancholy shrouding them, and one that tested their limits, but never once made them question one another.

Firth was particularly enjoyable to watch. His gentle, lovable demeanour was challenged at every step; when Tusker would wonder off and get lost, when he would forget the names of simple shapes, and when he struggled to do up his shirt buttons.

I could see the adoration and pure love in Firth’s character’s eyes, and it made the feature all the more stunning. He played this role perfectly, as his anger and confusion were kept under the surface but, when it broke through, it wasn’t explosive or scary, it was sad and heart-breaking and it hammered home that the love of his life isn’t who he used to be.

Of course, Tucci’s character, Tusker, was played beautifully. His body language built up the idea throughout the film that his dementia takes over in both large and small ways; even when he simply reaches for a cup to take a drink, but recalls his hand, then goes for the cup once more.

These tiny movements made all the difference, and again, pushed the belief that Tusker is not well, and may be losing control of who he is. Once a writer, Tusker can barely hold a pen, and struggles to write his lover’s name.

One thing that caught my eye and made me smile, despite the overwhelming sadness of the couple’s story, was that even though Tusker is slowly forgetting the things he knew well, his love for the stars and constellations seems to allow him to recall the most wonderful information about galaxies and worlds unknown to mankind.

Supernova is a melancholic, heart-breaking yet beautiful story about two people who adore one another, but who struggle to come to terms with dementia taking hold of their lives. It is a film that reminds you to adore what and who you have, and that it’s okay to talk about the hard things; because, in the end, everything will be okay.

Supernova is available on Digital Download now, and will be on Blu-ray and DVD on Monday, September 27th.