Description:

Memento is a 2D animated short film that explores memory, identity, and the emotional experience of dementia at the end of life. Inspired by my own grandfather’s journey with dementia, the animation follows an elderly man as he recalls significant memories from his
life during his final moments through a phenomenon known as terminal lucidity. Through carefully considered visual metaphor, abstract imagery, and colour symbolism, the film brings to life the deeply emotional experience of memory recollection as identity fades.

This animation is designed for a general audience, particularly people who have experienced the loss of a loved one through dementia or other memory-related illnesses. While the topic is complex, the tone and style of the animation aim to be gentle, accessible, and engaging for viewers of all ages, including younger audiences. The project offers a meaningful experience for those navigating grief or familial connection, as well as viewers interested in how animation can convey emotional narratives.

Dementia is a difficult topic for many to confront. It is often shrouded in misunderstanding, stigma, and emotional discomfort. Around 70,000 New Zealanders live with dementia, yet few creative works make the end-of-life experiences associated with it accessible or empathetic to wider audiences. A key barrier is the emotional and conceptual complexity of conveying memory loss and identity fragmentation in a way that audiences can emotionally engage with. Additionally, the phenomenon of terminal lucidity – moments of sudden clarity just before death – is largely unknown in public discourse, despite potentially offering comfort to grieving families.

Animation has a unique ability to visually express abstract concepts like memory, identity, and time in ways that traditional live-action media cannot. By utilising visual metaphors like flowing water, shifting light, and abstract shapes, the animation illustrates the disorienting yet beautiful experience of memory recollection during dementia’s final stages. Techniques such as colour symbolism, narrative structure, and empathetic character design work together to create an emotional bridge between the character’s experience and the viewer’s understanding.

The project brings this delicate subject to life in a gentle, thoughtful way that avoids sensationalism and instead highlights empathy and connection. By drawing from my own family’s stories and my personal memories of my grandfather, the animation is grounded in authenticity, allowing others who have faced similar experiences to find recognition and comfort. Ultimately, the film provides an opportunity for audiences to reflect on the importance of memory, to better understand the internal worlds of those living with dementia, and to foster compassionate conversations about life, death, and family connection.