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Monica
2023 113 min Italy, United States of America R 16+
★7.1
Drama
Director: Andrea Pallaoro
Trailers
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Description
After years of estrangement, a trans woman returns home to help care for her dying mother.
Budget:
$1.7M
US Gross:
$152,619
Worldwide:
$182,000
Starring
Trace Lysette
Actor
Vladimir John Perez
Actor
Ali Amine
Actor
Awards
Venice Film Festival 2022
— Arca CinemaGiovani Award – Best Italian Film (Youth Jury)
Venice Film Festival 2022
— Golden Lion
Key opinion
Monica is a quiet, emotionally resonant drama anchored by powerful lead performances. While critics appreciate its sensitive approach to family reconciliation, some note that its deliberate pacing and narrative gaps occasionally hinder the overall focus.
| Acting | Trace Lysette and Patricia Clarkson deliver nuanced, deeply moving performances that serve as the film's emotional core. | |
| Direction | The film captures an atmospheric and sensitive tone that elevates its story of family estrangement. | |
| Pacing | The deliberate, slow-burn pace creates a meditative atmosphere for some, while others find it creates a sense of narrative aimlessness. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay provides poignant insights into forgiveness and reconciliation, yet it is simultaneously hampered by disjointed writing and noticeable plot gaps. |