Title: New Documentary “Little Empty Boxes” Chronicles Son’s Journey with Mother’s Dementia
When Max Lugavere’s mother, Kathy, began showing signs of dementia, he made the decision to move cross-country and pick up a camera to document their journey. The result is the new documentary “Little Empty Boxes,” which delves into their relationship as they navigate the challenges of memory loss together.
The film captures Kathy’s memories of Max’s upbringing and his desire to be close to her, providing a strange comfort for both of them. While the documentary also includes interviews with researchers studying links between nutrition, exercise, and brain health, some viewers may find the film’s visual language to be uneven, ranging from traditional talking heads to a more observational approach.
“Little Empty Boxes” prompts viewers to reflect on other powerful documentaries that explore the impact of memory loss on loved ones. One such film is “The Eternal Memory,” which follows the story of journalist Augusto Góngora and his wife, Paulina Urrutia, as Góngora experiences a slow decline in memory. The film serves as a meditation on cultural memory and the loss that occurs when communities are unable to retain their histories.
Another poignant documentary mentioned is “Tell Me Who I Am,” which follows the story of twin brothers Alex and Marcus Lewis as they navigate the aftermath of a traumatic accident that resulted in Alex losing his memory. The film explores themes of trust, love, and the complexities of memory.
However, the most unmissable and life-affirming film in this genre is “Dick Johnson Is Dead,” which follows director Kirsten Johnson as she navigates her father’s journey with dementia. The film humorously and movingly stages different scenarios of Dick’s potential death while exploring their relationship and the meaning of love and remembrance.
“Little Empty Boxes” joins a collection of powerful documentaries that shed light on the emotional and challenging journey of caring for a loved one with dementia. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing memories and the bond between family members in the face of impending loss.
