The Forgotten is a 2004 American science fiction psychological thriller directed by Joseph Ruben and starring Julianne Moore. The film explores themes of grief, motherhood, and the nature of reality through the story of Telly Paretta, a mother who believes her son, Sam, died in a plane crash 14 months prior. As she struggles to cope with her loss, Telly's world begins to unravel when she discovers that her memories of Sam are being systematically erased.
The plot begins with Telly holding regular vigils for Sam, visiting his grave, and maintaining his room as a shrine to her lost child. However, her husband, Jim (played by Anthony Edwards), insists that she is delusional and that they never had a son. This shocking revelation leads Telly on a desperate quest to find evidence of Sam's existence. She reaches out to friends and acquaintances, but they too seem to have forgotten Sam. Telly's psychiatrist, Dr. Munce (Gary Sinise), suggests that her memories are merely fantasies stemming from a miscarriage, further complicating her emotional turmoil.
As Telly investigates, she encounters Ash (Dominic West), a neighbor whose daughter also died in the same crash. Together, they uncover a conspiracy involving government agents who appear to be erasing the memories of parents who have lost children. The film escalates into a tense thriller as Telly and Ash evade these agents while trying to piece together the truth about their children's existence. Eventually, Telly learns that she has been part of an experiment aimed at diminishing maternal bonds.
The Forgotten received mixed reviews from critics but was noted for its intriguing premise and Julianne Moore's performance. The film raises questions about motherhood and memory, suggesting that the bonds between parent and child are fundamental to human identity. Despite its critical reception, The Forgotten was commercially successful and has garnered a following for its unique blend of psychological drama and science fiction elements.