My Life (2001, DVD)

A movie I viewed before having children, remembering it now only makes me appreciate the life I have now.

Michael Keaton turns in a wonderful performance as an over-achieving professional on the fast track. He has a beautiful home and beautiful wife to match. It's just the two of them and they are content in life. Enter: Cancer.

Somewhere in the midst of perfection, a flaw raises its ugly head. Perfect, believable, something far too many viewers have experienced. Keaton's character gets cancer and with the help of his wife, portrayed by Nicole Kidman, he learns what he can and begins a battle. A battle more for the sake of the wife he adores than for himself.

Lest this become yet another sorrow-filled love story, ala Love Story, another lovable character enters the view finder. Much like true parents, viewers can't help but love the unborn baby Kidman finds she is carrying. Hoping against hope that this little one will be greeted into the world by a mother and father. It is at this point that Keaton determines to video tape much of his life. His impending departure and his baby's arrival seem to be headed for the same time.

As voyeurs through this process, witness the transformation of Keaton into father even before the birth. His determination that this baby will know his father, and his focus on the impending arrival in spite of his own heroic battle against cancer.

A very special film showcasing the talent Michael Keaton. Perhaps an actor forgotten too often, only remembered for Mr. Mom. He is firmly planted into this character and plays it believably. Kidman is beautiful and plays more of a supporting role both literally and in the movie.

Wonderful film which spurs one on to consider life...how short it is, what we want to be remembered for. If a movie can do this, it has my attention and accolades.