What They Had is a drama film that explores the themes of family, memory, and loss. The movie follows Bridget Ertz (Hilary Swank), a woman who lives in California with her husband and daughter. When Bridget's mother, Ruth (Blythe Danner), wanders into a blizzard one night, Bridget must fly back to her hometown in Chicago to help her family search for her.
As Bridget spends time with her family, she is forced to confront the painful memories of her past. Her brother Nick (Michael Shannon) resents her for leaving their hometown and starting a new life, while her father Burt (Robert Forster) struggles with Ruth's Alzheimer's diagnosis.
As Ruth's condition worsens, the family must make difficult decisions about her care. Bridget and Nick clash over how to handle their mother's illness, and Bridget begins to realize the toll that caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's has taken on her father.
Through it all, Bridget must confront the pain and regret of her past choices and find a way to move forward with her family.
Throughout the film, Swank delivers a powerful performance as a woman struggling to balance her responsibilities to her family and herself. Danner's portrayal of a woman losing her memories is heartbreaking and tender, while Shannon brings a sharp wit and intensity to his role as Bridget's brother.
What They Had is a poignant and emotionally charged film that explores the complexities of family relationships and the hardship of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's.