To the Stars is a powerful drama written by Shannon Bradley-Colleary and directed by Martha Stephens. The story takes on elements that are familiar such as coming of age and finding your sexual identity, weaving them into something new and deeply heartfelt.
The story revolves around Iris Deerborne (Kara Hayward), a downtrodden and very insecure high schooler who lives on a rural Oklahoma farm in the 1960’s. When a new girl named Maggie Richmond (Liana Liberato) moves into town the two young women strike up a close friendship. Originally, Maggie seems to be the confident and worldly foil to Iris, just the person to get her out of her shell, but we quickly learn that Maggie has her own demons. As these two young women grow closer both will see who one another truly is and have to learn to show who they really are to the world.
All the performances are stellar in this film. Whether you are rooting for or against a character, each actor brings authenticity and depth to the role. Even performances with minor screen time such as Iris’ father, portrayed by Shea Whigham, or the town hairdresser, played by Adelaide Clemens, will haunt you long after the credits have finished rolling. But it is the deep bond between Maggie and Iris that propels this movie above just another story about an introverted high schooler. Thanks to the amazing performances by Liana Liberato and Kara Hayward, we are reminded of what a true relationship of love beyond any label is really all about. The friendship that develops between Iris and Maggie is something profound and moving to watch unfold. It is the heart and soul of the film.
This movie is not perfect, however. There are some minor glitches, but they are insignificant compared to what the filmmakers get right. A great example of this is Iris’ mom. What could have been a stereotype is instead handled with realism and pathos. Although the resolution between Iris and her mom comes across too subtly and minor for all that we witnessed, the dynamic of the characters was still a potent spectacle to view.
Be warned though that this movie is removed of all fluff. It cuts deep without any apologies. I found myself wishing that things had turned out differently, which is a testament to how real these characters and their stories became for me. The ending is not sugar-coated, and although it can be viewed as an uplifting ending, it is not altogether a feel-good ending. The film portrays itself realistically throughout and that helps give it even more weight. It is a heavy experience and not one to watch for escapism.
Although there are many movies out there that have walked similar paths to what we see in To the Stars, the talents that come together make for an intense and unique tale. For any who have struggled to find themselves no matter what obstacles were in your way this movie will speak to you. It is well paced without anything feeling excessive or labored. It will stick with you and call out compassion in your heart. For those reasons it is an experience that is worthy of being shared.
RORSCHACH RATING:
If you or someone you know is reading this right now and you are struggling with suicide, depression, addiction, or self-harm - please reach out. Comment, message or tweet to us. Go to victimsandvillains.net/hope for more resources. Call the suicide lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Text "HELP" to 741-741. There is hope & you DO have so much value and worth!
Victims and Villains is written and produced by Josh "Captain Nostalgia" Burkey. Music by Yuriy Bespalov & Beggars. This post was edited by Cam Smith. To the Stars is property of Samuel Goldwyn. We do not own nor claim any rights. To the Stars is available on digital April 24h, 2020.
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