The narrative around cancer can often slip into clichés, with the poignant themes of illness, struggles, and life appreciation intertwining in what feels like a shared cultural lexicon. Poets Andrea Gibson and Megan Falley, who have been partners for over a decade, took their own distinctive paths in addressing these themes. Upon being diagnosed with incurable ovarian cancer in her late 40s, Gibson, who served as Colorado’s poet laureate, embraced the powerful mantras of living fully, loving deeply, and savoring every moment.
The new documentary “Come See Me in the Good Light,” masterfully directed by Ryan White, captures the couple’s raw and heartfelt journey amid their shared challenges. Gibson reflects on her diagnosis with a blend of fear and hope, expressing, “This is the beginning of a nightmare, I thought … my worst fear come true. But stay with me … because my story is about happiness being easier to find once we realize we do not have forever to find it.” These sentiments, while echoing familiar themes in cancer narratives, take on a unique light as narrated by Gibson and Falley in their poetry and intimate conversations at home in Longmont, Colorado.
As the film unfolds, it juxtaposes moments of pain with laughter. Gibson and Falley navigate the realities of treatment and the emotional weight of knowing their time together is finite. Their life is divided into three-week intervals, defined by the outcomes of blood tests that give updates on the cancer’s progression and treatment efficacy. High moments of joy contrast sharply with the soul-crushing pain of their situation, highlighting both the fragility and the brilliance of their connection.
The film showcases Gibson’s unique ability as a spoken word poet to confront and articulate the indescribable emotions tied to mortality. Her charismatic presence is a pivotal part of the film, which dives into deep intimacy—both tender and humorous. Memorable scenes, such as an uproarious dinner where jokes about the situation abound, underscore the role of humor in their experience, proving essential to coping with grief and uncertainty.
“Come See Me in the Good Light” not only won acclaim as the audience favorite at Sundance but also serves as a profound testament to one person’s journey filled with honesty and resilience. The documentary weaves together poignant poetry readings, archival footage from Gibson’s past, and a celebration of her life and career. It touches on the complexities of identity, self-perception, and the surprisingly liberating realization of what it means to live fully in the shadow of impending loss.
Gibson passed away in July at the age of 49, surrounded by love and memories. The film thoughtfully omits the exact date of her death, concluding instead on a note of vibrant life and wonder. It emphasizes a profound message: the celebration of life can continue even in the face of death, making every moment a precious gift to cherish. “What a glorious thing, to be alive,” is a fitting reflection of Gibson’s enduring spirit—a reminder that love and hope can flourish even in the darkest of times.