Can You Support a Sick Spouse?

Asahi Shimbun Morning Edition, June 5, 1999

There was a time when people used to say, "A husband is best when he's healthy and out of the house," or even compare them to "bulky waste." These sayings assumed that the wife was always healthy. If she caught a cold and had to stay in bed for a few days, the household would fall into chaos. If she were to suffer from heart disease or a mental illness, the stress on the husband would be immeasurable.

The 1975 film A Woman Under the Influence, directed by John Cassavetes, is one of his most acclaimed works. Peter Falk, known for his role as Lieutenant Columbo, plays a construction site supervisor who struggles to support his schizophrenic wife, played by Gena Rowlands.

Columbo, in his signature shabby coat, carelessly flicks the ash of his cheap cigar anywhere he pleases. He questions suspects who think they’re clever, wearing them down little by little. At first, they mock him and act relaxed, but as the questioning continues, their confidence fades, and they eventually admit defeat in the face of Columbo’s intelligence.

Columbo often says, "Well, you see, my wife always tells me…," using his unseen spouse as a way to trap suspects. The show never actually introduces his wife, but by the time A Woman Under the Influence was released, Columbo was immensely popular, and audiences were intrigued by mentions of "my wife."

However, in this film, Peter Falk is far from the cool and collected detective, and his wife’s condition is portrayed as tragic and deeply serious. She loses the ability to do housework and becomes confused, often calling his workplace for help. He rushes home, only to find her condition worsening. Despite house calls from doctors and injections to calm her, there is no improvement. Eventually, he has no choice but to hospitalize her for six months, despite her protests.

On the day of her discharge, friends from work and relatives gather at their home to celebrate. However, it soon becomes apparent that her schizophrenia has not improved much. One by one, the guests awkwardly leave. Peter Falk delivers a stunning performance, capturing the anguish of a man trapped in an impossible situation—reminiscent of Kotaro Takamura in Chieko-sho.

In reality, there are husbands who, despite the immense burden, continue to support their mentally ill wives with patience and kindness while excelling in their careers. If I may be a bit blunt, this is a film I would recommend to those fortunate enough to have a healthy spouse.