Marion Bridge

Agnes (Molly Parker) has come home to Sydney, Nova Scotia to see her hospitalized mother (Marguerite McNeil). She moves in with her sisters Theresa (Rebecca Jenkins) and Louise (Stacy Smith) who are still living at home. She is 65 days sober, but their mother never quit. They move their mother home. The women grate on each other. Agnes starts to stalk Joanie (Ellen Page) who is connected to her past somehow.

The movie is a low-key affair. The energy, the direction is a slow burn. The great actresses hint at a deeper story, and it's revealed slowly. Molly Parker and Rebecca Jenkins are especially terrific as sisters with unresolved issues. Marguerite McNeil is memorable as the alcoholic mother. The family secrets rattle around their relationships unspoken and untouched. It's a fascinating little movie.

Everything about Marion Bridge is subtle and beautiful. The script is spot-on about three sisters and I found myself enjoying how well the ensemble cast worked together. Unlike hollywood films, where the theme is usually beaten over your head, the movie speaks volumes in its silences and expressions. Molly Parker also proves that she can be a strong leading actress. I am excited about seeing her again.

This film is labeled as `Genre: Drama, Female'. It's NOT! When I think of female dramas or `chick flicks' I think of the typical "woman making it (or not) in man's world" (Steel Magnolias, Thelma and Louise) or sappy overly emotional Cinderella story (Never Been Kissed ands about a thousand others I can't think of now). This is not one of those. This is a drama. An excellent drama that, coincidently, has a primarily female cast.

I just saw "Marion Bridge" at the Arizona International Film Festival. What a great movie! Well balanced with characters you can feel. It is about siblings and the LOVE/hate relationships between. It's a strong truthful script without the over the top soapbox agenda so common to independent films. The cast draws you in completely. If you have a sibling, watch this movie. If not then. watch this movie!

Oh, and Molly Parker. Wow!

I recently saw this film at it's premiere in Los Angeles. This was by far one of the best independent films that I have seen in a long time. The script was powerful and emotional without being too preachy. The acting was flawless including the performances by Molly Parker, Rebecca Jenkins and even the young Ellen Page.

The directing and cinematography was exceptional. This is a deep film involving the lives of 3 very interesting sisters and their bond that will never break. Go see this film!

Marion Bridge is a remarkable film. The movie's story elements would be at home in a typical movie of the week, and without the remarkable skill and restraint shown by its first-time director, the narrative could have very easily degenerated into weepy melodrama or gross caricature. But instead, the film's tone, pacing and subtle performances allow Marion Bridge to draw its strength from the real drama and humour found in everyday choices, characters and settings; as compromised and complex as life lived.

Also worth noting: the excellent sound track - especially the opening and closing instrumental pieces, and the surprising talents of Ellen Page.