A Brief Review: Supernova

Welcome back to ‘A Brief Review’ a series of brief reviews on films from the present day and all the way back in time. Hoping to filter through the commotion and give some decent reviews of some rather decent films.

When I saw the idea of a film starring Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci as a gay couple suffering with the tragic circumstances of early onset dementia, I was intrigued to say the least. Though the film on the surface deals with the tender subject of dementia, it actually offers a deep dive into the many different experiences associated with the disease, both good and bad. Tusker (Stanley Tucci) and Sam (Colin Firth) are travelling through England to catch up with old friends, family and some of the places that have meant the most to them. Though the main subject of the film is dementia, it transcends just that, it also offers a pleasant experience about life, family, belonging and of course love. The sincere kind of love that comes when two people simply know each other inside and out. Sam is a talented musician and Tusker is an accomplished writer, together they have one of the most remarkable and heart wrenching stories to tell. Supernova is interesting and somewhat lacking in a range of areas, but as always, I love to focus on the positives, and this is undoubtedly a film that you should pick up when it arrives on streaming.

There is a feeling that this road trip may be their last chance to experience something special together before everything changes and Tusker’s debilitating condition takes hold of their lives. Tusker is often jovial and attacks life with energy and honesty, Sam on the other hand is careful, thoughtful, and unquestionably in denial. They both have an understanding that what they have together as they know it now is changing and for their relationship it is only going to get worse as Tusker’s illness takes hold of his brain. Yet, the film doesn’t focus on the impending doom, it decides to create warmth and power in the dreadful situation that these two people find themselves in. It’s not always about what is said that creates emotion, it’s sometimes the moments of warm, quiet reflection that helps this film to stand out.

The real power of this film comes in the performances of it’s two leading men. So much has been debated about straight actors portraying gay characters, but there is something so sincere and touching about their love story that is completely effortless. Whether it is a gesture, a touch or even a look shared between them, these are two characters who are so deeply in love, this only heightens the tragedy that we can all see coming. Sam knows that he is losing Tusker, not necessarily in a physical sense as his body will live on even as his dementia worsens, but it is his soul, his personality, and most heartbreakingly his memories that will be gone forever. This is something that is evidently just as painful an experience for Sam as it is for Tusker. 

I mention how much I have enjoyed the quiet moments that Supernova has to offer but let’s not understate how enjoyable and effective the dialogue is too. Whether the couple are playfully arguing about directions, laughing, or debating, there is a consistent heaviness to the atmosphere in this film. As you get to know them both individually and as a couple, you understand that a big chat is coming.

I loved the film’s subtlety and quiet confidence in its vision and style, supporting two actors in the prime of their careers with a great script and a meaningful storyline. Supernova is certainly one of 2021’s gems.

My Rating: 7.8/10