Hello My Movievaures! As 2022 has already started I was expecting to be writing about a more recent release, but I few days ago a came across a movie that deserves some recognition despite not being the popular type: The Lost Daughter. Released in December 2021 on Netflix, I heard a bit about it a few weeks before thanks to its amazing cast. Is the movie as good as its actors? Well, let’s get into it!
The Lost Daughter follows Leda (aka Olivia Colman), a college professor on a seaside vacation as she plunges into her past when she meets a young mother (aka Dakota Johnson) that will become the center of her obessesion. When I first saw the trailer I actually thought it was a psychological thriller. The music, the tension and the mystery as actually misguiding, even while watching the movie itself. I will not spoil the movie, but I will clarify this point: it is not a thriller, it is a drama, but a daunting one.
All is set in an island, giving the impression the main characters are locked up. With constant threatening glances from some of the characters, we almost feel like Leda is in danger, adding up to the constant tension she feels whenever she is around Nina and her child as if she is crushing under the strain of a big and dark secret. The close up filming often gives us a first person’s view, allowing us to enter the characters’ psyche.
However, as noted before this is not a thriller. Even though there are some reveleations through it, Maggie Gyllenhaal’s goal is mainly to do an exposé of motherhood or what consider not being a good mother is in today’s world. Having a woman existing only for herself, even though she is a mother, a wife or a daughter seems deranged for the characters in this movie. As Nina become this object of Leda’s fascination she also becomes a reflection of her past self that lead her there.
In short, The Lost Daughter is one of those movies where nothing happens, but a lot happens at the same time. For those who enjoy psychological dramas, you will admire the subtle details and references that allow us to understand the characters, all portrayed by amazing characters. This movie is not for everyone, I agree, but it is worth watching for those who are seeking for profoundness and intellect.
This is all for today My Movievaures! I hope you enjoyed this article, and let me know in the comments down below if you already read the book and watched the movie. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram for news and live reactions. I’ll see you next Sunday for a new review on The Movievaures!
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