In My Own Existence (17:15) - Cinema 1 - A

In My Own Existence

In My Own Existence is a hybrid documentary about Vincent and Lindiwe, a Black South African married couple whose relationship is affected by dementia. As Vincent’s memory and sense of identity become less reliable, everyday life and their shared history become harder to hold onto. Lindiwe tries to care for him and preserve their connection while facing the emotional strain of seeing the person she loves change. The film combines documentary-style information and testimony with fictionalised scenes to communicate both the wider reality of dementia and the personal experience of living with it. Vincent’s inner confusion is represented through a Memory Room containing an analogue television, fragmented imagery, white noise and photographs. The visual style moves from warmth and stability, into fragmentation as his condition affects their lives, and then towards emotional reconnection through a shared memory of their wedding. The ending emphasises that although memory may change, emotional connection and shared history can still matter. The film aims to encourage greater awareness of dementia and its impact on Black South African families.

Saturday, 21 November 2026 · 17:15 · Cinema 1 · Age rating: A

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