BuzzFlash Reviews

May 2005

Sunset Story (DVD)

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We read one viewer's response to this rare, humane, and humorous documentary film about a retirement home in Los Angeles for aging activists was, "I laughed, I cried, I picketed."

And that about describes our reaction to this "relationship story" of two elderly women (81 and 95) who become the best of friends at Sunset Hall. They are from entirely different ethnic backgrounds: Swedish and Jewish, but are drawn to each other through a mutual progressive commitment that develops into a remarkably touching and caring relationship.

As we write this review, we realize that this might sound a bit corny, but it's not in the least.

There's a great tenderness to the filmmaker's approach, combined with the unflagging activism of two women in the winter of their years.

In some way, the documentary answers the question about what happens to old lefties; but more importantly, it shows that even in your last years, you can get mad and protest as if there's no tomorrow.

After seeing the film, we felt privileged to have gotten to know these two women: Irja and Lucille. They let us share their lives for awhile -- and showed us that age shouldn't keep you from battling for justice.

This documentary is a little treasure that touches upon the issues of aging, friendship, politics and activism with great sensitivity and thoughtfulness.

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