Films about older people have become more frequent recently, probably because so many of our finest actors have aged into senior citizen-hood and need good parts, and many of them are worthwhile.  Still Mine definitely falls into that category; it is a Canadian drama, based on a true story, of a farmer (James Cromwell) who runs afoul of local building ordinances when he decides to build a house on his property to better care for his ailing wife (Genevieve Bujold).

Michael McGowan’s movie immerses itself in the place (New Brunswick) and as many details as possible regarding Cromwell’s situation.  He has money, but hates to spend it, reasoning that he can do most of the work himself.  He has grown children, but they drift toward the view that their mother should be institutionalized rather than kept at home.  He has right on his side, but the law is the law, and one particularly pugnacious official (Jonathan Potts) refuses to give an inch — even arguing that the wood used by Cromwell must be stamped by a manufacturer when Cromwell has cut the wood himself and is of better quality than any manufacturer’s.

Much of the front and middle of this drama constructs an indictment against modern bureaucracy, regulations and constriction of freedom — and it rings true with a clarity and urgency that made me squirm in my seat.  That it is all true is even more tragic and worrisome.  And all the time, Cromwell’s wife is sinking into dementia and losing touch with the world around her; falling down stairs, getting lost on short walks, not remembering to turn off the stove.  It amazed me that Cromwell’s character doesn’t break down or falter in his path.  But he doesn’t, and his ability to endure just about anything is inspiring.

James Cromwell has been a steady actor for about four decades now, in projects that have ranged from Star Trek: First Contact to Babe (1995, his only Academy Award nomination).  He has never been better than he is here, and I think he has an outside shot at another Oscar nod for this movie.  It’s a very physical role, full of strength of character, wisdom and compassion, and yet Cromwell is restrained throughout.  He is wonderful in this movie.

The film wraps up in court, where so much of our attention has become focused in recent years, as we continually depend on lawsuits and specific cases to determine our societal direction.  Cromwell’s character harkens back to self-determinism, self-sufficiency and quietly knowing and doing the right thing, all qualities which somehow are no longer considered optimal or imperative.  There is a great deal to consider in this movie, and while it isn’t the most artistic of films, Still Mine is that rare movie that functions as engrossing drama and social barometer.  It is definitely worthwhile to see, especially for people with rural backgrounds who can best appreciate its view of that lifestyle.  ☆ ☆ ☆ 1/2.  13 August 2013.