Heleen van Royen

What’s it like to age with early-phase vascular dementia? And how about your loved ones? Successful author Heleen van Royen has taken on caring for her elderly mother and films their frequent meetings. Increasingly, Mrs Breed’s life consists of confusion and unbearable stabbing pains that she tames with a mantra. She regularly refuses help, good advice and a Zimmer frame, although she is also thankful for her committed daughter’s support.

Julia has a good job and has two children with the caring Paul. But there are antidepressants in the kitchen drawer. She had imagined her life so differently when she was young and fantasized about it with her brother Jimmy. Their tragic farewell was twenty years ago, but still gnawing at her. After a fight with Paul, Julia decides to change course radically. She leaves - in the spirit of Jimmy - for the Portuguese Algarve. As she gets to know the mysterious gigolo Romeo, Julia's past comes closer than ever.

Lea is an immaculate 30-something wife whose husband’s job in real estate allows her an enviably glossy lifestyle. The word ‘emancipation’ simply isn't in her vocabulary and as long as the money rolls in, all is rosy. So, when Harry Jr. arrives, she is a little traumatized at having to swap canapés for nappies.