Tully: Movie Review

Director Jason Reitman, writer Diablo Cody, and star Charlize Theron follow-up their last collaboration, 2011’s “Young Adult” with the far-more interesting, “Tully”. Cody, who has written such films as “Juno” and “Jennifer’s Body” tops herself with what seems like one of the most honest films about motherhood. Theron also gives what I think is her best performance since 2003’s “Monster”. Together, with the direction by Reitman, we have one of the best film of 2018 so far.

Marlo (Theron) is a mother of three, including a newborn. Her son Jonah (Asher Miles Fallica) is emotional handicapped and her husband Drew (Ron Livingston) rather play video games in bed then giving his wife any kind of affection. When Marlo isn’t overstressed by the day-to-day routine with her children and lack of sleep, she feels frustration and loneliness. When Marlo’s brother, Craig (Mark Duplass) and his wife suggest that they get a night nanny, Marlo initially brushes it off.  She is just not comfortable with the idea of a stranger bonding with her baby.

When the stress becomes too great, Marlo gives in and that brings us the arrival of Tully (Mackenzie Davis), a young, carefree spirit who instantly makes life seemingly better for Marlo.  She is finally able to get a night’s sleep and in turn, allows her to feel some resemblance of happiness.  The more time Tully spends at the house, the more Marlo begins to rely on her.

Although I am a bigger fan of “Juno” than I am of “Tully”, I do feel Cody’s best writing to date is here, but it is the way Theron brings Marlo to life is what really makes the film work. We have never seen Theron seem so vulnerable and real and she is the main reason for you to give this film a look.

By: Marc Ferman