Check out this fresh and daring coming-of-age film, Wildflower. It follows the life of Bea Johnson (Kiernan Shipka) from birth to graduation, as she navigates through life with an intellectually disabled parent and an extended family that can't seem to agree on how to help. This film premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival and got a standing ovation.
Wildflower delves into the complicated and sometimes messy reality of growing up with a unique perspective. Directed by Matt Smukler in his fiction feature debut and written by Jana Savage, this movie doesn't shy away from challenging our perceptions of others.
Bea has had to mature much faster than her peers, helping her mother get ready for work and making sure her father keeps track of their money. Despite these challenges, Bea has a strong sense of self and knows her parents love her and want only the best for her bright future. Ryan Kiera Armstrong, who plays the young Bea, is excellent and perfectly captures both the carefree spirit of childhood and the mature, hardened personality Bea develops.
The film explores the benefits of Bea's situation rather than dwelling on the hardships. A particular scene stands out when Bea has breakfast with her aunt and uncle, who are taken aback by her unfiltered behavior. They are more concerned with their daily routine than enjoying life's simple pleasures.
Kiernan Shipka takes over the role of Bea for both time periods when the past and present more closely align. She brings a sharp edge and biting wit to Bea that feels like a natural progression from the version of her we saw in childhood. Samantha Hyde and Dash Mihok bring the complex and often misunderstood characters of Sharon and Derek to life. They routinely fend off well-meaning but hard-to-hear concerns from loved ones and are unfairly burdened with excess pressure to prove themselves and their abilities.
Wildflower is a warm and sincere coming-of-age tale that amplifies the stories of underrepresented groups in the media. It highlights the complications that come with growing up and reminds us to appreciate the people who appreciate us. Despite feeling overcrowded and at times unevenly paced, this film is a must-see for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on life.
Wildflower is directed by Matt Smukler.
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