Film Review – Monica

Co-writer/director Andrea Pallaoro makes a deeply personal film with “Monica,” but refuses any invitation to burn away the delicate nature of the story with grotesque overkill. It’s a nuanced, patient tale of a unique reunion, following the eponymous character as she returns home after years away, learning how to care for her sick mother and deal with all the pain shared between the two. It’s a character study, and an emotional one, with Pallaoro taking his time with the endeavor, working to get under the skin of the people involved, who share an experience together, but reunite as strangers. The picture is outstanding, but the real surprise is lead actress Trace Lysette, who really gets to spread her wings with the material, showcasing remarkable dramatic capability and screen authority in this, her first starring role. She makes the movie feel alive and real, helping Pallaoro find those deep places of contemplation as her character experiences a reawakening. Read the rest at Blu-ray.com