Review of Margaret (2011) by Jeffrey M — 16 Feb 2013

Uniquely conceived and executed, Margaret is one of the most interesting films to come out in quite some time. That it was originally scheduled for a 2007 release date, but only found a theatrical release this past year, makes it that much more interesting. It follows a teenager, Margaret, who witnesses a fatal traffic accident, but one in which moral ambiguity seems to carry the day.

What is certainly the most notable thing about the film is Anna Paquin's portrayal of Margaret. It's brilliant, passionate, and authentic, albeit not always easy to watch. This is a testament to the realism Paquin brought to the table, playing a character that most would find interesting, but also often strident, with a flair for hyperbole and melodrama that most actresses could only hope to imitate, but Paquin successfully embodied.

The other stand out thing about the film is simply how naturalistic it is. Director Kenneth Lonergan was able to capture emotions in an uncanny manner. This is how people feel, and this is how people react, even when such interactions are difficult to sit through, because it is so realistic (capturing the harsh dynamics of New Yorkers). So while the story is simple, it's rich in how detailed and down to earth it seems.

For what it does well, Margaret does seem to have a script and scope that is a bit too ambitious, with many characters. Not every character is quite given their due, despite a long running time, and some story-lines are never paid off or given any real attention. The main through-line, however, is done quite well, and largely anchors the film.

A must watch for any enthusiastic of independent film making.

4/5 Stars.