Academy Award nominee Patricia Clarkson and Trace Lysette star in the new film “Monica,” which opened in theaters on Friday, May 12.
Aside from Clarkson and Lysette, the movie stars Oscar nominee Adriana Barraza,
Emily Browning, and Joshua Close. It was directed and co-written by Andrea Pallaoro.
The synopsis is: A woman, Monica (Trace Lysette) returns home to care for her ailing mother, Eugenia (Patricia Clarkson) who she hasn’t seen in years in this tender portrait of family, forgiveness, and affirmation.
It is a sentimental and nuanced story of a broken family, which is an exploration of such universal themes as abandonment, aging, acceptance, love, loss, and redemption.
There is a great deal of depth, intricacy, and complexity in this movie, which is filled with symbolism. It handles some serious subject matter with delicacy.
Strong performances from the entire cast led by Patricia Clarkson and Trace Lysette give this groundbreaking movie its beating heart, while director Andrea Pallaoro ensures every character feels earnest and well-rounded. “Monica” will take audience on a wild and bumpy journey.
Trace Lysette delivers a tour de force performance as the titular character and has solid chemistry with Patricia Clarkson, who is superb yet subtle as she plays the dying mother with dementia; moreover, their complex rapport allows for more resonance.
Actors Emily Browning, Adriana Barraza, and Joshua Close are noteworthy in their roles as Laura, Leticia, and Paul respectively.
“Monica” is a poignant story centered on a trans woman, and it is told from that person’s unique perspective, which adds to its appeal. It is an important story that needed to be told. “Monica” is melancholically beautiful, and it stays with the viewer well after the ending credits roll.
It felt like watching “To Leslie” all over again, and Trace Lysette is our Andrea Riseborough (and that is meant as a major compliment).
Even though it was released relatively early in the year, “Monica” deserves to be a contender at next year’s Academy Awards. Director Andrea Pallaoro deserves to be commended for his vision and exceptional direction. It garners 4.5 out of 5 stars. Well done.
