‘Take Me Home’: Navigating Disability, Family, & Health

The film 'Take Me Home' centers on Anna, a woman with a cognitive disability, whose life with her aging parents in Orlando is about to undergo significant transformation. The narrative is inspired by and stars Anna Sargent, a disability advocate with cognitive disabilities, mirroring her own life experiences.

The story delves into the daily realities of Anna's family, including managing bills and healthcare red tape, set against the backdrop of their Florida home. As Anna's father faces increasing cognitive struggles, the family confronts the difficult truth about caregiving needs.

The film also portrays Anna's sister, Emily, a Korean adoptee living in New York, who returns to help manage her father's and sister's care. Her return highlights the emotional weight and practical challenges of long-distance family support and care.

Writer-director Liz Sargent's screenplay offers a critique of the American healthcare system, illustrating the convoluted nature of Medicare and Medicaid. Despite the harsh realities, the film is anchored by Anna's charismatic presence and her small yet significant declarations of independence.

The visual style of 'Take Me Home' captures both the claustrophobia and familiarity of family life, transitioning to moments of hope and engagement. The film concludes by portraying a world where music is shared and dancing is encouraged, suggesting a deeply caring environment for Anna.