What They Had

(2018)

Bridget, the central character in the movie What They Had (2018), receives a troubling call from her brother urging her to return home. Dispirited and concerned, she heads back to deal with her mother's declining health and her father's refusal to accept the reality of their situation. Upon her arrival, Bridget confronts the heartbreaking reality of her mother's cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease, which has reached an advanced stage.

The movie explores the family's struggle to come to terms with the situation and make difficult decisions about their mother's care. Simultaneously, they grapple with their father's resistance to making any changes and his unwillingness to acknowledge the severity of the situation. Bridget's brother, Nick, supports her in navigating the challenging dynamics that arise as they try to decide what's best for their mother's well-being and quality of life.

What They Had is an emotional and realistic portrayal of the complexities that surround families dealing with Alzheimer's disease. It has been praised for its heartfelt performances, particularly by Hilary Swank as Bridget and Michael Shannon as her brother, Nick. The film delicately examines the themes of love, sacrifice, and the struggle to let go. Audiences can expect to be moved by the tender moments, difficult conversations, and the underlying bond that holds this family together, despite their differences. What They Had invites viewers to reflect on the challenges and choices faced by families in similar situations, evoking empathy and understanding.