A Short History of Decay (film)

A Short History of Decay is a 2014 American comedy-drama film directed by Michael Maren. The film stars Bryan Greenberg, Linda Lavin, and Kathleen Rose Perkins.

The plot centers around Nathan Fisher (Greenberg), a struggling writer living in Brooklyn. He is summoned back to his Florida hometown when his aging and increasingly eccentric parents, Jerry (Harris Yulin) and Gayle (Lavin), require assistance. Gayle's health is declining due to Multiple Sclerosis, and Jerry is overwhelmed. Leaving behind his ambitious girlfriend, Genevieve (Perkins), Nathan finds himself grappling with his family's dysfunction, his own personal failures, and the challenges of aging and illness. He rediscovers connections with childhood friends and confronts unresolved issues from his past.

The film explores themes of family responsibility, the complexities of aging, and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in life. It blends comedic elements with moments of genuine emotion and explores the delicate balance between obligation and personal fulfillment.

A Short History of Decay was released in limited theaters and on video on demand in 2014. It received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its performances and poignant portrayal of family dynamics, while others found the narrative uneven.