Movie Review: Showing Up

 

Michael’s Movie Grade: A-

A beautiful and heartfelt slice of life film. 

This movie’s plot involves a sculptor who is preparing for a showing of her art. Most filmmakers would make this a film about art but Kelly Reichardt is not most filmmakers. Instead this becomes a movie about all the little things that happen to her as she prepares for this show. Many of which do not even revolve around art. This is one of those movies that moves at a really slow pace but as it goes on, you are completely gripped by what you are watching. It does not take along until we are completely invested in the life of this character even down to the smallest things. We care about her having to take care of a pigeon that her landlord sticks her with, about her not having hot water to take a shower, we care about her strained relationship with her parents and mentally ill brother and all these other little things. We also find ourselves easily relating to and understanding this character, because all of us have had our lives at times overrun by little things. Through all that happens in this film, not one moment rings false. It feels as if we are not just watching a movie but having a peek into someone else's life. Because of this there is a strong emotional connection we feel throughout the majority of this film. This is a movie about pushing forward when life stands in the way, but this is also a movie that never romanticizes anything. We do not have any over the top feel-good moments, but at the same time, we feel inspired by what we see. In other words, this film presents both the hardships and beauty of life in their pure reality. 

Adding to the beauty of this film is a wonderfully heartfelt performance of Michelle Williams as the main character. Her performance is subtle but always real and human. Also helping is a delightful deadpan sense of humor. Though this type of humor may not appeal to everyone, it made me laugh multiple times. 

This is simply a fantastic movie.