After viewing the movie trailer for The Music Never Stopped several weeks ago, I have been anxious to see the film which is based on the case study, “The Last Hippie”, by neurologist, Dr. Oliver Sachs, M.D. Set in the 1980’s, Henry Sawyer (played by J.K. Simmons) is informed that his estranged son, Gabriel (played by Lou Taylor Pucci), requires major surgery to remove a brain tumor. When they learn that Gabriel is no longer able to create new memories after the surgery, they consult with Dr. Diane Daly, a music therapist (played by Julia Ormond), who has used music therapy techniques to make progress with people who have suffered from brain tumors. As she discovers that Gabriel is most responsive to rock and roll music from the 60’s, she begins to use his preferred music not only to help him to begin to communicate and express himself, but also as a means help him reconnect with his long lost father.
As a music therapist, I am particularly interested to see how Dr. Daly’s character is portrayed as well as how the music therapy methods that she employed are represented in the film. However, since this movie is not currently set to be screened in Iowa theaters, it looks like I will have to wait until my next trip to Minneapolis to see it.
Be sure to check out the movie’s website to find the full synopsis, view the movie trailer and to see if this movie is being screened in your area!
