What They Had

If you read a plot summary for What They Had - siblings facing up to the infirmity of their parents - you might expect 100 minutes of sadness and misery. Crucially, though, director Elizabeth Chomko's debut feature isn't that kind of story. Some scenes are heartbreaking, as mum of two Ruth (Blythe Danner) struggles with dementia, but the film also sees the funny side of her condition. As her memory declines, her family can't help but laugh at some of the things she does (drinking holy water, using a stapler as a phone) - and you can't blame them. Ruth's condition also causes numerous arguments, as her husband (Robert Forster), son (Michael Shannon) and daughter (Hilary Swank) discuss treatment options. Forster is marvellous as the stubborn, overly critical parent, while Shannon is wryly amusing as the prickly, truth-telling son. Both are crucial to a witty, authentic drama that makes you feel like you've spent a few days with your own family.