A Deeply Personal Story Hits Home
Chris Hemsworth is back in the spotlight—but for his most personal story yet.
He recently shared that his father, Craig Hemsworth, received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Instead of keeping this private, Chris decided to bring the world along on their journey. His new documentary, “A Road Trip to Remember,” premieres on National Geographic on November 23 and begins streaming on Disney+ and Hulu from November 24.
“This project is about memory, love, and facing the hardest truths as a family,” said Hemsworth.
The film follows their motorcycle adventure across Australia. But more than exploring the countryside, they explore the past, their bond, and how families handle Alzheimer’s together.
A Diagnosis That Hits Close to Home
Chris faces more than just his father’s diagnosis. He also discovered he carries a high genetic risk of developing Alzheimer’s himself. He learned this during the filming of his earlier NatGeo series Limitless. Because of that, the documentary feels even more personal—almost like a look into his possible future.
Chris and Craig ride through suburban Melbourne and into Australia’s Northern Territories. They stop at places filled with family memories. Each visit gives Craig a chance to reconnect—and gives Chris an opportunity to hold on to moments that matter.
Interestingly, just like other extraordinary human stories that surprise the world—such as a woman born with two DNAs—Chris’s journey reminds us how unique and unpredictable the human body and mind truly are.
Blending Science with Emotion
Tom Barbor-Might directed the film, and Chris worked closely with producers like Darren Aronofsky, Jane Root, and dementia expert Dr. Suraj Samtani.
One major theme is reminiscence therapy, which encourages people with Alzheimer’s to revisit familiar places, people, and stories. Dr. Samtani explains how this can slow memory loss and improve emotional health.
“Reminiscence therapy and strong social bonds are medicine for the mind,” says Dr. Samtani.
The film explains how nostalgia, community, and connection boost brain health. Families can use these tools to stay close and create joy—even when memory fades.
Even simple routines like taking a few minutes of stillness each day have shown potential brain benefits, similar to the ideas explored in this article about doing nothing for 10 minutes to get smarter.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest actions can carry powerful effects on mental clarity and emotional health.
Told Through Chris’s Eyes
Chris didn’t just star in the documentary—he filmed much of it himself. That decision brings viewers closer to their story. The footage feels authentic, not polished or scripted. Instead of watching a Hollywood film, you’re watching a son and father share real moments on the road.
Here’s what the film explores:
- How families cope with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis
- How to create joyful experiences, even through memory loss
- Why social connection matters in maintaining brain health
- How to accept change, and find strength in vulnerability
Chris and his team developed the project over a year. They partnered closely with doctors, caregivers, and the Hemsworth family to ensure the story reflects both emotional truth and scientific accuracy.
“It’s not just about Alzheimer’s. It’s about what makes us human,” Chris reflects.
