Films that deal with the subject of cancer can often be rather harrowing experiences, particularly when dramatised. However, seeing the real-life experiences documented in the British documentary Our Journey With Lobular Breast Cancer offers something different and unexpected: hope.
The documentary focuses on Dr. Susan Michaelis, a former aviation safety researcher diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer (ILC) in 2013. It is a common form of the disease, affecting on average 22 women each day. Yet, specialised treatment remains unfunded, meaning many patients may receive a “one size fits all” alternative that may not be as affective.
She takes on the task of launching Lobular Moon Shot Project, a campaign to raise £20 million for targeted ILC research. Director Tristain Loraine, Michaelis’ partner, follows the fight to raise awareness with British MPs, and gain attention to their cause. We also follow the lives of 22 women diagnosed with ILC and what that day-to-day fight means for them.
The film is essentially the story of the project, which from a cinematic standpoint can feel more like a campaign video than a narrative project. That is, however, a minor issue to take with a film where the cause is so laudable, and the subjects so worthy of attention. Following the genesis of Moon Shot from idea to Parliamentary discussion, the film’s beating heart is the courage of Michaelis and her collaborators. At a time which might reduce many of us to despair, she maintains a hopeful position and solutions-oriented approach. You would have to be made of stone not to be inspired by the honesty, strength, and integrity of their mission.
It is also an interesting view of the process of political canvassing, where numbers are everything and the process of capturing a politician’s attention is an art in itself. How do you convince someone dealing with the thousands of issues of a nation that your cause is worth focusing on? For this group of women, we witness crushing disappointment, inventive ways of contacting MPs, and eventual victories. Like their battle against the disease, it’s humbling to see the indefatigable spirit of those on camera, and their determination to meet their struggle with a smile.
Our Journey With Lobular Breast Cancer succeeds in showing the people behind the headlines. As well as being urgent and informative, the emotional film champions the resolve of those who can find the best of themselves in the worst of scenarios.
The world premiere of Our Journey With Lobular Breast Cancer takes place during the 33rd edition of Raindance, which happens between June 18th and 27th.
