Familiar Touch Beneficiary For Salem-Keizer Alzheimer's Of Oregon (Photo) -07/14/25
Salem, OR — July 14, 2025 — Salem Cinema proudly presents a Reel Change for Our Community benefit screening of Familiar Touch on Monday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds from ticket sales will support the Salem-Keizer Alzheimer’s Network of Oregon, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of those affected by memory loss through community engagement and resources.
Familiar Touch, written, directed, and produced by Sarah Friedland, is a deeply empathetic coming‑of‑old‑age drama starring Kathleen Chalfant, Carolyn Michelle Smith, Andy McQueen, and H. Jon Benjamin. The film follows octogenarian Ruth (Chalfant) as she transitions into assisted living, grappling with her shifting memories and evolving sense of self. With subtle humor, profound tenderness, and memorable performances, the film eloquently explores identity, caregiving, and the power of human connection.
The movie premiered at the 81st Venice International Film Festival on September 3, 2024, where it earned multiple honors: the Lion of the Future prize for Best First Feature, as well as awards for Best Director (Sarah Friedland) and Best Actress (Kathleen Chalfant). It received U.S. theatrical release starting June 20, 2025, via Music Box Films. The film has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of aging and dementia: critics highlight its emotional resonance and the rare dignity it brings to stories about memory loss.
Event Details
Film: Familiar Touch
Date & Time: Monday, July 21, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway NE, Salem, OR
Ticket Prices: $15 in advance, $18 the day of the event. Click here to purchase tickets.
About Salem-Keizer Alzheimer’s Network of Oregon: This benefit screening supports the network, a local nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The organization provides compassionate support, community education, and accessible programs that reduce stigma and foster connection. One of their core initiatives is the Memory Café, an inclusive monthly gathering for individuals living with memory loss and their care partners. These events offer a safe, uplifting space for socialization, engaging activities, and community-building. Memory Café gatherings are scheduled to take place on two upcoming dates. The first event will be held on Friday, August 15, at Center 50+ in Salem, and the second on Monday, August 18, at St. Edward Catholic Church in Keizer.
Both events are free to attend and offer refreshments, engaging activities, and a welcoming environment for caregivers and their loved ones. To learn more about the Memory Café or to get involved, visit www.alznet.org or call 971-720-1652.
