The Heart-Wrenching Reality of Memory: The Father and the Struggle with Dementia

The Father shows us a story about an elderly man named Anthony, struggling with dementia, as he loses his grip on time and space. His daughter, Anne, tries to care for him, but he can’t always tell if she’s helping or if she’s someone else entirely. The film takes us deep into his confused mind, making us feel what it’s like to forget everything, even the people you love.

A fan theory suggests that the film’s shifting set designs represent Anthony’s perception of the world falling apart. As his mind breaks down, everything he thought was real becomes distorted, and we start to see the world through his eyes.

What if Anthony had been given better care earlier, or had he been able to accept help? Could he have lived his last years with less pain and confusion?

One key moment happens when Anthony, convinced he is being tricked, starts to question everything. His anger and frustration are so real, and it’s heartbreaking to watch as he loses more of himself.

An alternate ending could show him finding peace in his final moments, surrounded by the warmth of understanding and love. It would give us hope that even in darkness, there’s light.