Review: What They Had
by Karen Pecota

Bleecker Street distributions takes pride in collaborating with first-time writer/director Elizabeth Chomko, to officially launch their narrative feature What They Had at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. A relatable story about a family torn apart by the onslaught of adult Alzheimer's. Chomko says, "Making this film has been a true labor of lover for me, my creative team and the magnificent cast."

“I was incredibly moved by Elizabeth’s story of a family working through their collective issues and the heartache of dealing with a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s,” said Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street. “We know audiences will relate to the characters’ love, compassion and humor in dealing with each other.”

Synopsis:

Bridget Ertz (Hilary Swank) returns home to Chicago for a family visit at her brother, Nicky's (Michael Shannon) request. Their mom, Ruth Ertz (Blythe Danner) suffers from Alzheimer’s and each passing day she slowly slips into a different world. A place where her family is often shut out.

Ruth's gruff husband, Burt (Robert Forster) is scared of what his future holds. He's reluctant to let go of their life together. Through a series of comedic and heartbreaking episodes, during Bridget's visit, each family member makes their peace with the family life they once had. The choice is theirs to live in the past or create a new future built upon the positives of family ties.

Theater release date: October 12, 2018 (USA)