I have some friends and family members who just can't do subtitles. To the degree that they take one look at the screen, see subtitles, and seem to deflate or let their attention drift away, move into a different room for a conversation, etc. So I try not to put those movies on when they're around.
But I've noticed that these individuals don't really do complex films, either. In company, they generally prefer light conversations that flit from topic to topic. I have wondered if this natural capability for a refreshingly vibrant, wide-coverage attention-shifting mode (I am actually envious of it in some ways) brings a corresponding complication to the act of watching a movie. These people will often ask things like, "OK, so what's happening? I'm so lost." If you throw subtitles AND a complex plot into the mix, it's just so far out of their wheelhouse that they may straight up fall asleep, etc.
I want to emphasize though that I don't think this reflects upon their intellect, rather that it's just a difference in how they operate.
By the way I thought the film itself was great, not sure how one of the medical miracles in particular was even remotely possible while another one or two seemingly lesser medical issues were terminal, (hope that's not a spoiler) but it was just such an attractive film from the start in so many different ways.
I do admit I would have preferred a more Ocean's 13-type departure from the social commentary approach if possible, but I think I've also shifted into a mindset of seeking out more gentle entertainment after overcoming depression.