Unconditional Love

The deeply religious 80-year-old Teresa and her grandson Rafal have had a close relationship since his childhood, when she took care of him. Rafal still visits his grandmother often, and does odd jobs for her in and around the house. But their love for one another is put to the test when he tells her he’s gay. With casual, quasi-amateurish camerawork by Rafal and a female friend, the film follows Teresa and her grandson during encounters at her home and while visiting other people. It turns out Teresa doesn’t feel the need to keep her opinions to herself: one moment she’s feeling down because she’s sure her grandson’s sexuality means he’s destined for a lonely life without a family, but the next she’s throwing a barrage of accusations at Rafal. Teresa thaws a little when Rafal introduces his attractive and charming boyfriend. Grandson and grandmother spend a lot of time bickering and talking things out, but beneath all the anger and sorrow, a deep love and appreciation for one another are palpable. (International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam)