I watched To Leslie and I really liked it! 4/5
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To Leslie is a 2022 American drama film directed by Michael Morris and written by Ryan Binaco. The film stars Andrea Riseborough as Leslie, a single mother who wins the lottery and squanders it just as fast. Years later, with her charm running out and nowhere to go, she fights to rebuild her life and find redemption.
The film has been praised for its honest and unflinching portrayal of addiction and recovery, as well as for Riseborough’s powerful performance. However, it has also been criticized for its slow pacing and its lack of resolution.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its honest and unflinching portrayal of addiction and recovery. Morris and Binaco do not shy away from the dark side of addiction, and they show how it can destroy lives. However, they also show that it is possible to recover, and they offer hope to those who are struggling.
Riseborough’s performance is another strength of the film. She gives a truly remarkable performance as Leslie. She is able to capture Leslie’s complexity, her vulnerability, and her strength. Riseborough’s performance is so believable that it is easy to forget that you are watching a movie.
The supporting cast is also excellent. Marc Maron, Owen Teague, and Andre Royo all give memorable performances. Maron is particularly good as Sweeney, a recovering addict who helps Leslie on her journey to recovery.
However, the film also has some weaknesses. One of the biggest problems is the slow pacing. The film is over two hours long, and it can feel quite tedious at times. This is because the film spends a lot of time on lingering shots of Leslie and the landscape. While these shots are beautifully shot, they can also be quite boring.
Another problem with the film is its lack of resolution. The film ends with Leslie on the road to recovery, but it is unclear whether she will be successful. This lack of closure may be frustrating for some viewers.
Overall, To Leslie is a well-made film with an honest and unflinching portrayal of addiction and recovery. Riseborough’s performance is truly remarkable, and the supporting cast is also excellent. However, the slow pacing and lack of resolution may make it difficult for some viewers to enjoy.