Watch Home for Life

Home for Life is a 1967 documentary film that presents the stories of several elderly couples who live in a retirement home in Chicago. It was directed by Frederick Wiseman, who is known for his pioneering work in cinéma vérité. The film explores the emotions and experiences of the residents as they adjust to their new living conditions and reflect on their lives.

The film opens with a shot of the retirement home, a large brick building surrounded by trees. The camera then follows various residents as they go about their daily routines, from taking part in exercise classes to playing cards with their friends. We hear their thoughts and feelings in voiceover, as they reflect on their pasts and their fears for the future.

One couple, John and Nellie, have been married for 59 years and are struggling to adapt to their new home. John wants to spend more time with his wife, but she is content to socialize with other residents. Another couple, Harry and Evelyn, have been married for 55 years and are more outgoing. They take part in bingo games and dance lessons, but also argue and bicker over small things.

The film shows the staff at the retirement home, including nurses and s, as they care for the residents. They handle medical emergencies and help the residents with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing. We see the staff discussing the various challenges of their jobs, from keeping the residents engaged to managing the budget of the home.

One of the most poignant scenes in the film is a group therapy session where several residents discuss their anxieties and fears. One woman talks about her fear of dying alone, while another man expresses his frustration at his loss of independence. The therapist listens patiently, offering comfort and reassurance.

Wiseman's style is observational, with no interviews or narration. The film simply presents these people and their lives, allowing us to make our own judgments and form our own opinions. The camera lingers on small moments, such as a resident struggling to open a jar or an leafing through paperwork. The film's slow pace is deliberate, giving us time to reflect on the emotions and experiences of the people it portrays.

The film has been praised for its depiction of old age and the challenges of aging. It presents the residents as real people with complex emotions, rather than stereotypes or caricatures. It also highlights the importance of community and human connection, as the residents each other through difficult times.

Home for Life was a critical success, winning the Golden Bear at the 17th Berlin International Film Festival. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The film has been described as a classic of cinéma vérité, a genre that emphasizes realism and the subjective experience of the people it portrays.

In conclusion, Home for Life is a powerful and moving portrait of aging and the challenges of adapting to a new life in a retirement home. It offers a glimpse into the lives of several elderly couples and their struggles with health, loss, and loneliness. The film is a classic of cinéma vérité and a must-see for anyone interested in documentaries or the human experience.