Unveiling the Voices of Dementia: A Filmmaker's Journey
When renowned filmmaker Ian Bustard embarked on a project to shed light on dementia, he drew from a deeply personal experience: the uncertainty that enveloped him after his father's diagnosis. Collaborating with Scottish poet and activist Ron Coleman, who lived with vascular dementia and earned the moniker 'The Demented Poet,' they crafted a powerful narrative.
Their joint creation, a documentary and short film, is now captivating audiences nationwide in a double-bill screening. The emotional responses from those living with dementia and their caregivers underscore the profound impact of this cinematic endeavor.
The documentary, aptly titled 'The Demented Poets,' chronicles Bustard's journey following his father's diagnosis and introduces viewers to Coleman and other 'dementia activists' who refuse to be defined by their condition. Concurrently, Bustard and Coleman produced 'Caught in This Moment in Time,' a short film based on a stage play by Coleman, where he portrays a writer grappling with dementia and writer's block, accompanied by an AI companion, Alexa.
Bustard shared with BBC Scotland News that the screenings aim to amplify the voices of those living with dementia. He stated, 'It's a film that's particularly suited for individuals who have recently received a diagnosis or for family members, as it offers a unique perspective distinct from that provided by medical professionals.'
The emotional response from viewers, including those with family members affected by dementia, has been remarkable. Bustard noted, 'We're witnessing a strong emotional reaction from people with family members, and even those who have received a diagnosis have expressed feeling positive for the first time since their diagnosis.'
Tragically, Coleman passed away in October last year, mid-screening tour. On his deathbed, he requested Bustard to continue their collaborative work on a third film in his memory. Bustard is now honoring this request, working with the team they built together.
The duo had been developing 'The F Ward,' a film envisioned by Coleman that explores the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on individuals in care homes. Bustard recounted, 'He left me with a list of tasks, but his primary wish was for me to complete 'The F Ward.' I promised Ron I would finish this film, and that's exactly what I intend to do.'
This project, featuring actors with dementia alongside seasoned actors, aims to preserve memories from the pandemic era, offering a unique and poignant perspective on a challenging period.
