Adele and Everything After

Adele and Everything After is a poignant drama-documentary that explores the deep and transformative bond between humans and their animal companions. Released in 2017, this movie is directed by Melissa Dowler and stars Marty, Darlene Sullivan, and James Januzzi. It is a film that poignantly reflects the spirit of humanity, compassion, friendship, and survival against odds through the extraordinary story of a woman and her faithful canine.

The movie tells the moving story of Marty Harris, a woman afflicted by a heart condition that causes sudden fainting spells. Just as she's losing hope and her world is becoming increasingly limited by her illness, she gets a unique lifeline – a service dog named Adele. What she doesn't realize then is that this dog will drastically change her life.

Adele, a black Labrador , is no ordinary pet. She is trained to detect oncoming vasovagal syncope attacks which can cause Marty to faint. Through her powerful sense of smell, Adele is amazingly able to predict when Marty is about to faint, warning her in time to lie down and prevent injury. This unique ability allows Marty to live her life with a newfound sense of independence and confidence, knowing Adele is there to watch over her.

Adele is portrayed not just as a service dog but also as a companion and loyal friend to Marty. The bond between them grows beyond Marty's dependence on Adele to prevent her fainting spells. They form a deep emotional connection that transcends the traditional boundaries of a human-dog relationship. Adele and Marty's interactions become the heart and soul of the film, drawing viewers into their world, enveloping them in an atmosphere of love, companionship, and mutual trust.

As time goes on, an inevitable reality dawns on Marty. Adele's service dog career cannot last forever, and there will come a time when she will have to retire. The prospect of Adele not being by her side alarms and devastates Marty. The film skillfully navigates these emotional moments, showing Marty's struggle with her feelings and the turmoil in her mind over what comes next after Adele.

We also see other significant characters, like Marty's partner Darlene Sullivan, who offers unwavering support to Marty through her bouts of anxiety and fear. James Januzzi, who plays himself, offers his medical expertise to explain Marty's condition. Their presence adds depth to the narrative, elucidating Marty’s condition further and showcasing the struggle of those living with such illnesses.

A major theme of the movie is about preparing for the inevitable. Through deep emotional exploration and heartfelt storytelling, 'Adele and Everything After' doesn't shy away from the harsh realities that pet owners must face when recognizing the lifespan differences between humans and their animal companions. At the same time, it is an ode to the unconditional love and affection that animals bring into our lives, the companionship we share with them, and the remarkable abilities of service dogs.

Elegantly framed shots and emotive scenes, woven together with a thoughtful narrative, make 'Adele and Everything After' a feast for the senses. The soft lighting and exquisitely shot scenes create a palpable atmosphere, enhancing the emotive depth of the narrative. This is balanced with moments of lightness and hope, making the film an emotionally rounded experience. The aesthetic choices seamlessly complement the meditative feel of the film, resonating with the audience long after the credits roll.

'Adele and Everything After' has been praised for its sensitive depiction of Marty and Adele's bond, the transformative power of their relationship, and how it squarely puts into perspective the value of service dogs in providing both physical assistance and emotional support to those they help. It is a film that will touch viewers deeply, igniting compassion and understanding, and prompting reflection on the special friendships we share with our animal companions.

The heartfelt performances of Marty, Darlene Sullivan, and James Januzzi blend seamlessly with the overarching narrative and theme of the story. The realness of their acting and the depth of the relationships portrayed add a raw and powerful dimension to the viewing experience.

In conclusion, 'Adele and Everything After' is a gracefully told story of an extraordinary friendship that will tug at your heartstrings. With its earnest storytelling and compassionate view of service dogs, it supports the widely held belief that animals are indeed man's best friend. Watch it to witness the transformative power of companionship and resilience as Marty navigates life with and after Adele.