Uncle Frank
Documentary (73 min.)

Frank lives in the once-booming mill town of Rome, New York with his wife of 39 years, Tillie. A retired machinist, he turned to his love for music when the local General Cable plant shut down, costing him his job of 34 years. Frank taught himself the keyboard and started volunteering his talents at a local nursing home. Every morning Frank takes his 35-pound keyboard to play for ninetysomethings who sing, dance or sometimes sleep their way through his music. He identifies with his peers in the nursing homes, and understands that theirs is a life he would have if not for his good health and the enduring bond with Tillie. Then Frank’s way of life is put to the test when he is unexpectedly diagnosed with prostate cancer. And, just when he and Tillie find a way to deal with the fear and uncertainty of his condition, another life-threatening event takes place. This time, Frank is forced to confront his own mortality.