Italian
A family’s extraordinary journey amidst visual impairment
Canadian couple Édith Lemay and Sebastian Pelletier, blessed with four children, face a unique challenge. Three of their kids are on the verge of losing their sight due to a congenital condition. Determined to let their children see the wonders of the world before darkness encroaches, the couple embarks on a grand tour, which is the poignant focus of a Nat Geo documentary.
Emotional depth and awareness
The film dives into the emotional journey of the family as they confront the realities of retinitis pigmentosa, a condition affecting their children Mia, Colin, and Laurent. By highlighting this relatively obscure illness, the documentary also aspires to raise awareness, bringing the lived experience of visual impairment to a broader audience.
Cinematic visuals and human struggle
The documentary, directed by Edmund Stenson and Daniel Roher, opens with a mesmerizing shot of the family traversing a snowy landscape. This “Lord of the Rings”-esque imagery sets a tone that juxtaposes the smallness of human struggle against the vast, indifferent natural world. The filmmakers choose to present the narrative in a comforting light, following the parents’ relentless efforts to make the most of every moment.
Getting to know the family
Through a fly-on-the-wall approach, the film introduces the family in their Montreal home. Léo, the imaginative nine-year-old, is the only sibling without retinitis pigmentosa. Eleven-year-old Mia steps into a natural leadership role, while six-year-old Colin is the quirky middle child. The youngest, Laurent, is affectionately described as a philosopher by his parents. Édith, the more expressive parent, humorously reflects on the chaotic yet rewarding experience of raising four children, admitting to embracing the chaos that comes with a large family.
The devastating reality of sight loss
Retinitis pigmentosa is a slow, irreversible process where retinal cells gradually die, leading to a shrinking field of vision until total blindness. One of the film’s most heart-wrenching moments occurs when Laurent, despite constant conversations about blindness, reveals his confusion about what it means to go blind. This innocent revelation is a stark reminder of the grim reality they face.
Balancing adventures and emotional reckoning
Throughout their journey, the film explores whether the emphasis on creating joyful memories overshadows confronting the harsh facts of their children’s condition. The narrative suggests that while seeing the world is important, the most valuable aspect is the quality time spent together as a family. This sentiment resonates deeply, portraying the grounded reality of their unique situation.
Children being children
While breathtaking landscapes and exotic locales form the backdrop, the film’s heart lies in the everyday moments of the children playing, wrestling, and immersing themselves in their imaginary worlds. These scenes are filled with a raw authenticity that underscores childhood’s innocence and resilience.
A moving conclusion back in Canada
The documentary’s most touching scene unfolds back in Canada, where the three affected children engage in play with three puppies. These aren’t just ordinary puppies; they are guide dogs in training, symbolizing a future where assistance will be crucial. This ordinary yet profound moment captures the essence of the family’s journey—finding joy and purpose amidst overwhelming challenges.
Final reflections
This insightful documentary is a testament to the human spirit, shedding light on the trials and triumphs of a family navigating an unimaginable reality. By blending poignant storytelling with impactful visuals, it provides a platform to raise awareness about retinitis pigmentosa and the broader implications of visual impairment.
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