Watch Our Curse

Our Curse is a moving and deeply personal documentary film from Poland, released in 2013. The film focuses on the experiences of director Tomasz Śliwiński and his wife Magda Hueckel as they navigate the difficulties of caring for their newborn son Leo, who has been diagnosed with an incurable nighttime breathing disorder called Ondine's Curse.

The film follows Tomasz and Magda as they struggle to adjust to their new reality in the neonatal intensive care unit, and then at home, where they must care for Leo with the help of medical devices that monitor his breathing and alert them if he stops breathing during the night. Throughout the film, the couple shares their fears, frustrations, and hopes as they try to come to terms with the challenges of raising a child with a serious medical condition.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its intimate and deeply personal nature. Tomasz and Magda are not afraid to share their vulnerabilities and emotions with the audience, and the film is shot and edited in a way that makes the viewer feel like a close friend or family member witnessing their struggles firsthand. The camera often lingers on moments of silence or hesitation, allowing the audience to absorb the weight of what is happening and to feel the emotions of the subjects.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the film is not entirely bleak. There are moments of dark humor and unexpected joy, such as when Tomasz and Magda celebrate Leo's first birthday by dressing him up as a superhero and baking him a special cake. The film also features beautiful cinematography, with many scenes shot in natural light and with a muted color palette that complements the somber tone of the story.

The film's soundtrack is another standout element, featuring a haunting and ethereal score by composer Karol Stolarski that perfectly captures the film's mix of sorrow and hope. In several key moments of the film, Stolarski's music builds to a crescendo that feels like an emotional release, allowing the audience to fully feel the weight and significance of what is happening on screen.

Ultimately, Our Curse is a powerful exploration of the complexities of love and parenthood in the face of adversity. Tomasz and Magda's journey is one that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced a difficult and painful situation, and the film's unflinching honesty and raw emotion make it a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. Whether you are a parent, a medical professional, or simply someone who has experienced the struggles of life, Our Curse is a film that is sure to leave a lasting impact.