Forget Me Not review: The realities of bipolar disorder

4/5

What’s it about:

This short film is set in the 1970s and revolves around the struggles of two young sisters who must cope with their mother’s bipolar disorder. Their everyday hardships force them to grow up and care for their mother.

What’s hot:

Forget Me Not highlights the struggles faced by two siblings whose mother has bipolar disorder. Viewers can’t help but feel sorry for the duo as the opening scene shows them waiting for their mother to pick them up from school while the rest of the kids leave for home. The constant worry and fear about their mother’s safety force them out of childhood. Their love for their mother causes them to look after her while also dealing with fears of their own.

Towards the end of the film, we watch the young girls calm their mother down after one of her episodes. It is like watching the children parent their parent as they comfort her and ensure her safety. Although it may seem like they are brave and responsible, the fear and sadness in their eyes never go unnoticed.

The film’s portrayal of bipolar disorder is done tactfully, without dramatization. It is also interesting to watch a film that deals with this disorder, as it is rarely showcased in mainstream media. It is heartwarming to witness the girls’ mother make time for them and play with them despite her own issues. This helps them have a slice of a normal childhood, which they crave.

There are several silent scenes throughout the film. This gives the audience the time to process what is happening on screen and analyze it for themselves. This makes the film interactive and entertaining at the same time.

What’s not:

The film may seem a little too long for some owing to the long pauses and little dialogue. But, apart from that, there isn’t much to dislike about it.

Verdict:

The gripping narrative and fantastic acting by the trio make the short film a must-watch. Although the film barely has any dialogues, it does not fail to impress. It reminds us of the unconditional love between parents and children and the lengths they would go to for each other.