FilmSnobReviews

Title: Madeline’s Madeline
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Director: Josephine Decker
Starring: Helena Howard, Molly Parker, Miranda July
Runtime: 1 hr 33 mins

What It Is: Madeline (Howard) is a troubled young lady. When her theatre teacher Evangeline (Parker) begins a new show Madeline starts to take it all a bit too seriously. This starts to manifest itself in the already rocky relationship she has with her mother Regina (July). When it all becomes too real and far too much for her she’s on the verge of breaking down. But can her relationships and sanity be saved from whatever is going on inside it?

What We Think: Many will find this a difficult film to sit through. That is mainly because of the off-kilter script, filming techniques, and director decisions. I loved the unique nature of this one. Helena Howard is simply sensational. She’s a future star in the making. Josephine Decker is marvelous behind the lens. There’s a simple story here that is told really well. One that sees the characters illustrated in a fantastic light. This is the type of film that the Independent Spirit awards would salivate over. In fact, Helena Howard earned a Best Female Lead nomination. Deservedly so.

Our Grade: B+, A fantastic film, but one that will divide audiences. Those with a less refined palette may not find anything here outside of a strange little film. Those who enjoy a bit of the avant-garde this is right in your lane. A perfect look into mania and mental illness. One that doesn’t hold itself back but does not sugar-coat its point. A very difficult film to get through, but one that proves somewhat satisfying in the end. This film is currently available on VOD and BluRay/DVD and I completely recommend this film. With a caveat of course. That being that you go in with an opened mind.