The first feature-length documentary by Faroese filmmaker Búi Dam, Birita [+leggi anche:
trailer
scheda film], is set to world-premiere in the NORDIC:DOX competition of the imminent CPH:DOX (11-22 March). Cineuropa exclusively brings you the film’s trailer.

In this moving and deeply personal documentary feature, a family of theatre-makers on the tiny archipelago of the Faroe Islands attempts to stage Shakespeare’s King Lear, casting the mother – celebrated theatre actress Birita Mohr, who is living with Alzheimer’s – in the lead role.

Birita’s son, Búi Dam, a theatre director, leads the project – a controversial endeavour driven by his belief that, even though his mother can no longer meaningfully consent, she longs to return to the stage. Directing the play, Búi must grapple with justifying the project’s premise, while his father, a retired stage director, tries to balance caregiving with his own well-being.

As this remarkable drama unfolds, Birita’s joyful presence brings a surprising lightness to the process, leaving a profound impact on everyone involved.

“The day my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she bought a sign to hang over her door that read: ‘Don’t take life too seriously – nobody gets out of it alive anyway.’ I think this quote from Elbert Hubbard perfectly captures her life philosophy,” says Dam.

“Throughout her struggle with Alzheimer’s, she has remained happy and joyful – always ready for a song, a dance or a laugh. This has inspired those of us around her to be more present, to love each other more deeply and to live fuller lives. There are many films about Alzheimer’s disease, and very few that are joyful, celebratory or life-affirming. I hope this is one of them.”

Birita was lensed by Franklin Symphor Henriksen and edited by Ricardo Acosta, while the score was composed by Bill Frisell. It was produced by Jón Hammer, Durita Sumberg and Mark Steele for Faroe Islands-based Outlier Projects and is still open for international sales.

Check out our exclusive trailer for Birita below: