MOVIE REVIEW: FITTING IN

 

A teen girl is diagnosed with a reproductive condition that upends her plans to have a sex life, propelling her to explore unusual methods. Her relationships are challenged with everyone in her life, but most importantly, herself.

Director: Molly McGlynn

Cast: Maddie Ziegler, D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Djouliet Amara, Emily Hampshire

Release Date: August 9, 2024

Genre: Comedy, Drama

Rated R for sexual content, language throughout, drug use and drinking – all involving teens.

Runtime: 1h 46m

Review:

Writer/Director Molly McGlynn's semi-autobiographical, coming of age dramady, Fitting In, possess an undeniable authenticity due in large part to a stellar turn from its star Maddie Ziegler.  McGlynn directs her film with a steady, confident hand which gives the story a naturalistic feel in its pacing and dialogue for the better part of the film's runtime.  Her connection to the subject matter comes through as the central character's struggles to feel normal carries an emotional resonance which can only come from lived in experiences.  The story starts familiar enough before it moves into more serious territory and we follow Lindy traversing a very personal journey while dealing with the standard assortment of teenage drama.  Maggie Ziegler is tasked with the challenging role that requires an ability to balance the outward normalcy while being internally troubled by a genetic situation that was entirely out of her control.  Ziegler delivers an impressive turn where she balances both sides of the coin, especially in the private moments where her character insecurities and vulnerability is on full display.  She's tasked with carrying the lion's share of the film's weight and does so with impressive ease.  Emily Hampshire plays her mother who is also dealing with a series of emotional and psychical issues like her daughter and there's a realistic messiness to their relationship which rings true.  D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, Djouliet Amara and Ki Griffin round out the supporting case with each getting their moments throughout the film but ultimately its Ziegler's show.  A few pacing and story issues do pop up particularly in the final act but that doesn't keep Fitting In from leaving a noticeable impression.  

B

MOVIE REVIEW: MUSIC

Zu is newly sober when she receives news that she is to become the sole guardian of her half-sister named Music, a young girl on the autism spectrum. The film explores two of Sia's favourite themes finding your voice and creating family.

Director: Sia

Cast: Kate Hudson, Maddie Ziegler, Leslie Odom Jr., Héctor Elizondo, Ben Schwartz, Beto Calvillo

Release Date: February 10, 2021

Genre: Drama, Musical

Rated PG-13 for thematic content, drug material, brief violence and strong language

Runtime: 1 h 47 min

Review:

Sia’s directorial debut has garnered a massive amount of press before its release mainly for all the wrong reasons.  Sia’s intentions and heart seem to be in the right place but the finished product falls into a strange hybrid of a visual album and an autistic melodrama.  The musical numbers are very much on brand with Sia’s previous works and performances.  They are candy colored fantasy’s that pop right off the screen with booming vocals that’s sure to please fans of the singer.  The drama portion is anchored by strong performances from Kate Hudson and Leslie Odom Jr. who elevate the script which feels like a relic from the past.  It unapologetically pulls on every heartstring possible which makes film’s like 1985’s Mask or 1976’s The Boy in the Bubble seem subtle by comparison.  Maddie Ziegler casting as the titular Music has caused the biggest uproar since she’s a neurotypical actress playing an autistic character.  The issue is ultimately a bigger issue that needs to be addressed but in terms of this film, Ziegler’s performance is decidedly broad and overstated.  Music is ultimately the type of vanity project that’s probably suffered from being created in a bubble which resulted in tunnel vision to its detriment.

C