Aurora Borealis (film)

Aurora Borealis is a 2005 American romantic drama film directed by James C. E. Burke and starring Joshua Jackson, Juliette Lewis, and Donald Sutherland.

The film centers on Duncan Shorter (Jackson), a young man adrift in life, working a series of unfulfilling jobs in a small Alaskan town. His life is disrupted when his estranged mother, Audrey (Lewis), calls him back to their home after his father suffers a debilitating stroke. Duncan struggles to reconnect with his family, particularly his withdrawn and emotionally complex mother, while also navigating a burgeoning romance with Kate (Louise Stratten), a local nurse who is caring for his father.

The film explores themes of family reconciliation, personal responsibility, dealing with loss and grief, and finding purpose in life. It received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the performances of the actors and the atmospheric cinematography, while others criticized the slow pacing and somewhat predictable plot.