The animated film 'Tangles' explores dementia through the eyes of a daughter, Sarah, who pauses her burgeoning life to care for her Alzheimer's-stricken mother, Midge. Featuring an impressive voice cast including Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Abbi Jacobson, and Bryan Cranston, the film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival's Special Screenings.
Adaptation and Story
Based on Sarah Leavitt’s 2010 graphic memoir, 'Tangles' tells the story of a young woman's life in San Francisco being interrupted by her mother's declining health. Sarah, portrayed by Abbi Jacobson, juggles her career and a new romance when she returns to Maine to find her mother acting erratically. Initially assumed to be menopause, Midge's behavior is eventually diagnosed as Alzheimer's disease.
Cast and Direction
Directed by Leah Nelson, making her feature debut, 'Tangles' balances humor and sorrow. The film's tone remains mostly light despite its heavy subject matter, which may leave some viewers craving deeper emotional exploration. Julia Louis-Dreyfus voices Midge, capturing her warmth and complexity, while Bryan Cranston provides his signature gravitas as Sarah’s father. The cast also includes Seth Rogen, Sarah Silverman, Bowen Yang, and more.
Animation and Impact
The film’s animation, while different from Leavitt's original memoir, retains a black-and-white aesthetic that is described as cozy yet forlorn. 'Tangles' stands apart from mainstream animation styles, offering a more bespoke visual experience. This unique approach may appeal to audiences seeking diverse storytelling in animation.
Reception and Themes
While 'Tangles' may not deliver the bold storytelling found in other dementia narratives, it offers a comforting portrayal of a family navigating Alzheimer's. The film resonates with viewers who have faced similar experiences, providing catharsis and understanding. 'Tangles' highlights the everyday struggles associated with dementia, serving as a gentle reminder that animation can tackle serious subjects without losing its heart.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/tangles-review-julia-louis-dreyfus-abbi-jacobson-1236594791/
