Get ready to cry with your first look at The Eternal Memory. MTV Documentary Films released the first teaser trailer for the heartbreaking film that captured the Grand Jury Prize for World Cinema Documentary this year. Directed by Oscar nominee Maite Alberdi (The Mole Agent), The Eternal Memory intimately observes long-time couple Paulina Urrutia and Augusto Góngora as the latter faces deteriorating health following a diagnosis for Alzheimer’s disease. A film of tender emotional power, it offers a portrait of unwavering love as Paulina vows to care for Augusto through thick and thin, relishing whatever time they have left together.
The story proves especially poignant with the news that Augusto, a journalist and documentary filmmaker, passed away on May 19 following complications with the disease. Augusto’s work offers a touching through line to The Eternal Memory as images from his work reflect the memories that endure. The images echo Paulina’s effort to preserve whatever memories she can.
“By offering such a frank and intimate window into Paulina and Augusto’s lives, Alberdi finds a heartbreaking story,” I wrote while reviewing the film at Sundance. “However, the film harnesses the positive spirit that Paulina resolves to uphold while caring for her husband, thus offering welcome moments of levity and grace. While it’s a sad story, The Eternal Memory defines their tale not by tragedy, but by love. You won’t soon forget it.”
The Eternal Memory opens in New York in August 11 and in select Canadian theatres from The Impact Series beginning August 18.
