Grown Up Movie Star

This study of relationships within a dysfunctional family has all the elements of an overwrought soap opera. After viewing the film, I considered that there was an overabundance of drama, with many plot developments straining credulity. Having said that, I was unaware of these flaws while watching the film. Astonishing performances raise it above the material. Young actress Tatiana Maslany gives a compelling performance as Ruby, a 13 year old desperately in need of parental guidance. Abandoned by her mother, left with a father emotionally unable to be that provider, Ruby flounders. She makes numerous bids to grow up too fast, flirting with danger and tragedy results. Yet amidst much grown up and juvenile angst, there's a core of tenderness at the heart of the complex relationships, a ray of hope that suggests this family may be down but not altogether out. The well seasoned performers portray this subtlety effectively, with cinematic rather than soap opera results.