It's almost impossible to review this movie without massive spoilers at almost every turn. But the "reveal" in this biographical documentary about writer/director Polley's own family is both confounding and compelling in such fascinating and unexpected ways, I feel that I must try to keep it spoiler-free.
The main subject/protagonist in this story of a artistic storytelling family is Sarah's mother, Diane Polley (herself an actress and casting director). In the '70s, the 8/16 mm footage of Diane reveals someone born to be an electric presence and the center of attention. Sarah grows up to share aspects of her mom's very expressive face & endearing personality.
Then, in the late '70s and early '80s, we gradually learn of certain secrets (and what family doesn't have those?) as well as a looming tragedy, that not only will dramatically affect the extended family members and closest friends, but also serve to take the biographical elements of this movie in new and different, ever evolving directions.
I was already familiar with some of Sarah's fine acting work, mainly in films made in her native Canada, but some in the U.S. as well. And I knew that she'd started directing (movies are a director's medium, after all). What I didn't know was how well she could write and direct the story of how she has come to be the brilliant creative force she obviously is. The stories detailed here by extended family members, rivals, and other loved ones help illuminate more than just their own lives and loves, but also some of the frequently confusing conditions associated with being human. 9/10.
Review of Stories We Tell
