Sometimes the hardest thing to see is the truth.|Dec. 30, 2022|Canada|90 Min.|R
Genre: Drama;Thriller
Description: Alice Darling (2022) tells the story of Alice, portrayed by Anna Kendrick, who finds herself trapped in a psychologically abusive relationship with her boyfriend, Simon, played by Charlie Carrick. During a getaway with her closest friends, Tess (Kaniehtiio Horn) and Sophie (Wunmi Mosaku), Alice begins to reassess her situation and strives to break free from the toxic codependency despite Simon’s vindictive behavior. Throughout the trip, Alice appears visibly tense, constantly checking her phone and exhibiting nervous habits like touching her hair. Though it’s suggested that Alice met Simon through Tess’s social circle, Simon’s controlling nature has gradually isolated Alice from her friends. To avoid conflict, Alice lies to Simon, claiming her trip is for work in Minneapolis, while in reality, she’s celebrating Tess’s birthday at Sophie’s family cottage.
On their way to the cottage, the trio stops at a store where Alice notices a missing person flyer for a teenage girl named Andrea. As the trip progresses, Alice becomes increasingly preoccupied with the case, even joining a local search party for the missing girl. While this subplot initially hints at a potential dramatic twist, the film remains focused on its psychological thriller and drama elements.
At the cottage, the women bond over their time together, enjoying the serene rural setting and the nearby lake. However, Simon discovers Alice’s location through Tess’s Instagram and demands she return. Alice reluctantly prepares to leave, but Tess hides her phone and wallet to prevent her departure. Meanwhile, Sophie heads to the store, allowing Tess and Alice to spend quality time together. During their bonding, Tess encourages Alice to try longboarding on the lake. A playful moment turns stressful when Alice loses an earring gifted by Simon and dives into the water, frantically searching for it. This incident triggers a panic attack, leaving Alice muttering that she can’t afford to make another mistake.
The film explores themes of toxic relationships, self-discovery, and the power of friendship as Alice navigates her journey toward reclaiming her independence.
Cast director: Mary Nighy
Cast actor: Anna Kendrick, Kaniehtiio Horn, Charlie Carrick, Wunmi Mosaku, Markjan Winnick, Daniel Stolfi, Susan Applewhaite, Mairi Babb, Sara Bradeen, Toni Ellwand
Original name: Alice, Darling