INFINITELY POLAR BEAR (2015) | dir. M Forbes | USA

Reviewed by Emma Bridgwater

Synopsis

This slice-of-life film follows the story of Cameron Stuart (Mark Ruffalo), who struggles with bipolar type I disorder, and his young family. After a psychotic episode results in hospitalization, he attempts to rebuild his relationships with his two young daughters and their mother.

When his partner Maggie (Zoe Saldana) accepts a scholarship to Columbia University in New York, requiring her to move away for eighteen months, Cameron is suddenly thrust into the role of primary caregiver. The film follows both the challenges and sweet moments between Cameron and his children over the next year, as everyone works to adjust to their new roles.

Stylistic Elements

The viewer spends a significant amount of time in the cramped, rent-controlled Stuart apartment. The camerawork here often reflects Cameron’s mental state; when his disorder is well managed, the angles are wider and more comfortable, reflecting the tidy apartment. As Cameron becomes manic, and the apartment becomes increasingly cluttered with partially finished projects and unwashed dishes, the camera shots become close-up and almost claustrophobic.

Characters

Cameron’s motivations to be both a good father and a good partner feel intensely real. Furthermore, the viewer is privy to his struggles with adherence to his medication, which highlights a common experience among those with mental illness.

The children, Amelia (Imogene Wolodarsky) and Faith (Ashley Aufderheide), portray the tumultuous relationship they have with their father very well. Though there are clear moments where the love they have for Cameron is demonstrated, the film is not afraid to show the conflicts they have. They are often embarrassed by their father (his aggressive friendliness with the neighbours, the state of their apartment) and struggle to come to terms with his smoking.

Narrative

While there are no dramatic twists or reveals, the narrative is captivating. There is an emphasis on Cameron’s manic behaviours, however; the depressive side of the illness is touched on only briefly, and it is not addressed well.  

Emotional Impact

Despite its slow pace, the film is moving. The realism of the characters makes it easy to empathize with the difficulties they face. Interspersed are moments of frantic energy, reflected by the score and camerawork, that sweep the viewer along with Cameron through the phases of his illness.

Educational Score

7/10. Non-judgemental portrayal of mental illness and its impact on the individual and those around them. An easy watch.