Marion Bridge

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.

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.

As someone who loves the theatre but is tired of seeing the same material recycled again and again, it is refreshing to know that independent film still exists. Marion Bridge is such a breathe of fresh air. Its the type of picture which reassures you that there are still filmmakers out there who care about the story they are telling rather than just looking for a vehicle to demonstrate the newest special effect.

This film was absolutely wonderful. The others who have commented here have already given a synopsis, so I won't go into those details. I simply wanted to add my name to those who have praised Wiebke von Carolsfeld's feature length directorial debut.

Ms. Carolsfeld has taken a powerful story written by Daniel Maclvor and transfered it to film in a fashion that will touch you on many levels. I assure you that you won't forget about this movie or its performers (Molly Parker, Rebecca Jenkins, Stacy Smith and Marguerite McNeil are all outstanding) anytime soon.

I will continue to look for future endeavors by all of the participants in this project. They have a new fan today; one who hopes that there is plenty more material to come.

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' 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.