North of Normal

From the opening scene of North Normal, I felt drawn in and gently swept into this captivating movie with its' beautiful scenery and its' complex and endearing characters. I fell in love with Cea Person's books and I was excited and a little nervous to see how her story would be portrayed in film. This movie surpassed my expectations. I was blown away by the wonderful quality of acting and the artful cinematography. I laughed, cried and I came away with much to think about. The relationships and the sensitive subject matter were thoughtfully and creatively handled. It felt real, raw and yet, somehow, beautiful at the same time. My husband has not read Cea's books and he is more of an action/adventure movie guy. Amazingly, he was swept up in the viewing experience as much as I was! There was plenty of adventure to keep him involved and he found the dynamics between the main characters to be captivating and authentic. Bravo!

North of Normal was and has been my favourite book since I read it a few years back and it's my number one go to book to recommend to anyone looking for a book recommendation. When I heard that it was going to be made into a film, I was ecstatic, when I found out it was being filmed in my hometown, I was over the moon with excitement. The movie followed the book well, the book I was able to paint the pictures of what was happening in my head, the movie brought those photos to life. It showed the struggles and the triumphs, the good and the bad, and I hope that it gets released to the general theatres for more people to be able to enjoy this beautiful movie. It will now be my go to book and movie. Hopefully they'll be able to make Nearly Normal the sequel one day too on film.

Interesting lifestyle piece exploring the mother/young daughter dynamics in a chaotic alternative lifestyle.

Lack of a stable home and upbringing as Cea's mother moves frequently with the various men in her life.

The 'acting' was superb but especially regarding the two young Cea's. So compelling and then watching the older Cea getting her confidence and courage as she comes of age and begins to move on. Where are my tissues? Highly recommended.

I suspect there is much more that could be explored around this story but in my opinion it accomplishes likely what it set out to explore. A young girl and how well she copes in a nomadic lifestyle, much of it in the great outdoors but constantly on the move.

Just saw the movie this evening and can't stop thinking about it. Same feeling when I read the book. The actors were perfect, and truly reflected what I envisioned each character to be like. Right from the beginning I was drawn in to the evolving relationship between Cea and her Mother. That bond was strong, but sadly not enough. I admired Cea's resilience, determination (and sense of humour) throughout and it was skillfully portrayed. The cinematography was also amazing and captured the essence of the story. Great music too! Looking forward to watching the movie again. And hope there will be a sequel.

'North of Normal' is such an appropriate title for this film. The perception of what we feel is 'normal' can be a reflective thought after watching this movie. It was a treat to have a peek into this unique upbringing. I appreciate the honesty and vulnerability of the characters It makes me want to know more of this captivating story.

There are so many mother daughter stories out there - this one, despite the tenacity of the relationships, showed love and compassion and at a deep level.

How each character showed their love was interesting to observe and easy to relate to.

I recommend seeing North of Normal.