Marion Bridge

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.

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.

'Marion Bridge' begins with 30-something Agnes waiting in a Nova Scotia airport bar for her sister Theresa's arrival on a flight from Toronto. After catching sight of a security guard, Agnes decides against lighting a cigarette. Later, after the two women greet each other with noticeable coolness, she declines to finish her drink, and comments tartly on the size of her sister's suitcase. Theresa makes a defensive response, and then laboriously hefts the oversize case through the airport instead of using its wheels.

This nuanced prologue telegraphs some prickly family dynamics, and sets the tone for the remainder of the film. On arrival at the family home, where a third sister also resides, the reason for Agnes' return soon becomes apparent: the siblings' mother is dying of cancer at the local hospital. As the story unfolds, family secrets are gradually illuminated by a smart, sensitive script which appears to have inspired exceptional performances from both cast and crew. The mystery of 'Marion Bridge' is revealed without theatrics, until it arrives at a final act which is as elegantly understated as the opening sequence - except that it has the effect of a punch to the gut.

Marion Bridge was one of 14 films nominated for the Tiger Awards of the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2003 and I wouldn't be at all surprised to see this film win. I have deep respect for the actresses who play the three sisters Agnes, Theresa and Louise, especially for Molly Parker (Agnes aka Angie). Mother is dying in the remote village in Nova Scotia where the sisters spent their youth. Agnes, who has an alcohol problem (inherited from her mother, as it seems), returns from Toronto just to find nothing has really changed. There is the usual bickering with her sisters, the woman next door is as nosy as ever and the people getting drunk in the local bar seem to have never left the building. A notion of suspense is triggered as Agnes repeatedly parks the family car in front of a souvenir shop. There she sits and watches the young girl Joanie who lives there. As the drama slowly develops questions are answered and new questions launched, even after the plot is unveiled. I won't give it away here, but I can assure it is quite shocking. The three sisters are very well cast as is their mother. The father who lives with another woman is an old sod who doesn't seem to remember (or care) what has happened in the past. Marion Bridge ends with an optimistic scene which is as moving as the film as a whole. A noteworthy achievement by young director Wiebke von Carolsfeld.

A sign of a good movie? When you just don't want it to be over, you do not want to leave the characters.

This is such a movie, flawless performances by all, without exception. It draws you slowly into the secrets at its depth, without mawkishness or a hammering of two by fours. The relationship between the sisters feels real. No black and white, a lot of grey but underneath it all a terrible understanding, unspoken and fearful.

All unfolds as it should. I was pleased to see the writer was Daniel MacIvor who also wrote another subtle, gentle movie called "The Five Senses." You are uncertain where it is taking you for a while and then the devastating truth you begin to guess at unfolds.

The story is revealed more in looks and glances than in specific dialogue. More than anything it is a story about coming home and making peace with the devils you have tried to leave there but are haunting you everywhere anyway.

8 out of 10. It is a shame these movies do not get wider circulation. Bravo to all.