In the Family

Although the phrase “runs in the family” suggests traits ranging from hair color to sense of humor, director Joanna Rudnick's In the Family refers to the filmmaker's predisposition for cancer, specifically a particular genetic mutation. Presenting her story in first person, Rudnick concentrates on her life since receiving confirmation of the presence of the BRCA1 gene in 2001. On the positive side, Rudnick's mother survived ovarian cancer, and her boyfriend says that he will support her no matter what, although he does wonder if Joanna isn't a little paranoid. Still, Rudnick views her body as a ticking time bomb, especially after her physician confirms an 85-90% risk of developing breast cancer, as well as a 50-60% risk of ovarian cancer (which also struck her grandmother). Rudnick's film visits relatives (including Rudnick's mammographer sister), research scientists, geneticists, and members of the breast and ovarian cancer support group FORCE. Some of the women interviewed here chose preventative surgery in order to reduce their risk. Rudnick, who is in her early 30s, wants to have children, and hasn't ruled out an elective mastectomy, but worries about rushing into irreversible procedures (Rudnick also explores advances in breast reconstruction, talking with plastic surgeons and patients). While undeniably personal, In the Family offers a surprisingly well-rounded portrait of health issues faced by thousands of women and their loved ones annually (the National Cancer Institute estimates that over 180,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008). DVD extras include an interview with the director, bonus footage, and a list of resources. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)