Written and directed by Brooke Berman, a single mother discovers that her unflattering reality is the subject of a filmmaker’s new project. Ramona faces up to her disappointments, she finds true creative power and is finally ready to become her best self. Starring: Yvonne Woods, April Matthis, Alysia Reiner, Joel de la Fuente, Kristen Vaganos, Catherine Curtin, Zarah Mahler, Scarlett Sher, Yetta Gottesman and Rosemarie DeWitt.
The mother who had a career but slightly lost herself in having a child, now unsure how to return to it or reclaim her success may sound very familiar but don’t be quick to dismiss Ramona at Midlife as it has plenty to offer. A big part of that is how Brooke Berman constructs the character of Ramona (Yvonne Woods), she has that classic self-doubt and anxiety but she also has the typical qualities of a writer in that she’s self-assured with a touch of arrogance. It’s a flurry of being nervous and unsure yet confident in her value, which is relatable while being a unique mix.
Having that blend is a big factor in the quality of the Yvonne Woods’ performance, she gives Ramona a quirky yet sympathetic edge. She has a frantic, almost flighty energy but at the same time she’s clever, capable and defiant. It’s one of those performances that’s easy to connect to because it highlights of all our typical flaws, that we can all be a bit of a mess sometimes. She also does really well with the comedy of the script, it never feels like she’s trying to be funny, it flows very naturally.
That’s something Ramona at Midlife has throughout, it has a short runtime and it moves well. Admittedly, in its final scenes it can feel a little rushed, as though it’s a summarised version of its ending that needed fleshing out. However, one of the biggest things it has going for it across the board is best reflected in its directorial style, which is that it’s quietly charming. It’s not in a traditional, sweet or eccentric manner, it’s something more organically grown with an endearing simplicity. Brooke Berman plays things naturally, going for an everyday tone which is elevated by the great editing from Michelle Botticelli.
Ramona at Midlife is relatable, funny and charming, capturing the quality of how we can stumble through life from one obstacle or misstep to another. That to be messy is to be human but that making a few conscious, purposeful choices can make a big difference. Yvonne Woods gives a great leading performance and April Matthis is wonderfully sharp and witty support, and Alysia Reiner is as biting as ever. It’s a strong directorial debut from Brooke Berman.
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