Iris

Iris, based on the life of British writer and philosopher Iris Murdoch, is a story of unlikely yet enduring love. As a young academic, Murdoch meets and eventually falls in love with fellow professor John Bayley, a man whose awkwardness seems in stark opposition to the self-confidence of his future wife. The story unfolds through Bayley's eyes.

He recalls their first encounter over 40 years earlier. These images portray Murdoch as a vibrant young woman with great intellect and are contrasted with the novelist's later life, after the effects of Alzheimer's Disease have ravaged her. Murdoch's great mind deteriorates until she is reduced to a mere vestige of her former self, unable to perform simple tasks and completely reliant on her husband.

Following the 6pm screening of Iris, Cardiff sciSCREEN presented a free panel discussion. We explored themes brought up in the film including dementia, social care and ageing. The speakers were:

Prof Kim Graham - understanding memory impariment after brain damage and developing markers for measuring disease progression

Dr John Gallacher - the UK Dementias Research Platform

Prof Joanna Latimer - health and social care for older people

Dr Andrew Edgar - dignity in the treatment of the elderly

Free food and drinks were provided and everyone attending was welcome to take part in the debate.

Please note, this film carries a 15 certificate.

Venue: Hadyn Ellis Building, Maindy Road

Time: 6pm screening, followed by drinks and nibbles, talks and discussion

With special thanks to our sponsors for this event: