It's Not Yet Dark

It's Not Yet Dark is an inspiring and heartrending documentary film directed by Frankie Fenton released in 2016. Named after the acclaimed memoir written by Simon Fitzmaurice, it follows the extraordinary life journey of Simon, an Irish filmmaker and his undying passion for his life and making films despite being diagnosed with a rare form of motor neuron disease or MND.

The narrative of the film spans for about 80 minutes, beautifully weaving a web of Simon’s life, capturing his struggles, triumphs, and indomitable spirit. Interwoven within this are his undying love for his wife Ruth Fitzmaurice and his dedication towards his five children, forming an emotional core as the film progresses.

Simon Fitzmaurice, the protagonist of the film, was an aspiring writer-director, on his path to making it big in the Irish film industry when he was diagnosed with motor neuron disease. Committed to his passion for film-making, Simon decided not to let his physical disability restrict him from doing what he loved most. He began to use an eye tracker, a device controlled only by his eye movements, to write scripts, effectively overcoming his physical limitations and affirming his resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Providing intimate insights into Simon's life, the documentary highlights the lengths this determined artist went through to accomplish his dream. It captures his inspiring journey to direct his first feature film “My Name Is Emily” after his diagnosis with the use of eye-gaze technology, an illustration of human spirit facing adversity with grit and zeal.

Ruth Fitzmaurice, Simon’s wife, is portrayed wonderfully throughout the film. She is shown as not only being Simon’s rock but also as an incredible woman in her own rights. Her memoir, “I Found My Tribe,” poignantly discusses her personal experiences, living with a husband battling MND. The unwavering support of his family despite the progression of Simon's illness forms the emotive cadence of It's Not Yet Dark.

Narrated by Colin Farrell, the film holds a deeper resonance with the audience, recounting the undaunted journey of a man whose invincible spirit could not be hindered by bodily constraints. It showcases Simon’s remarkable example created in both the realms of literature and cinema. It is not just focused on Simon’s struggle with the illness and his physical deterioration but also his passion for art, undying spirit, and unwavering positivity. It is a testament to the power of resilience, the spirit of humanity, and the strength of love in the face of adversity.

From an artistic perspective, the documentary is brilliantly shot. The cinematography is handled masterfully, and the pacing is perfect, illustrating the nuances, subtleties, and the drama in Simon’s life that keeps the audience hooked from start to finish. Despite its heartbreaking subject matter, It's Not Yet Dark maintains an uplifting tone throughout, conveying a strong sense of positivity and resilience.

Both Ruth and Simon Fitzmaurice, as well as their children, give moving performances in the film, offering viewers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into their lives. Ruth's strength and resilience dealing with the trials of caring for a spouse with a terminal illness are palpable and compliment Simon's spirit, making the film even more moving.

In terms of other technical details, the film has beautifully composed music by Stephen Rennicks that complements the narration without being overly intrusive. The combination of captivating visuals, compelling narration, and stellar performances make It's Not Yet Dark a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.

It's Not Yet Dark ultimately delivers a message of hope and resilience. Simon and Ruth’s story is one of love, unyielding courage, and perseverance. It is about the human spirit surviving and thriving despite the worst of circumstances. It serves as an awe-inspiring reminder of the power of will, love, and the human spirit. While the film subtly acknowledges the harsh reality of MND, it chooses to embody and celebrate Simon's undeniable spirit.

In conclusion, this achingly honest, yet uplifting narrative riddled with emotional depths is an exemplar of bravery, compassion, creativity, and defiance against all odds. It's Not Yet Dark portrays not merely the story of one man with a severe condition, but it presents a universal truth about the inherent strength of human spirit- stirring, moving, and inspirational at all levels. It's a film worth watching for the power it holds to make you appreciate life, love, and the infinite potential of the human spirit.