Introduction"Kelly & Cal" is a 2014 independent drama and romantic funny movie directed by Jen McGowan. Juliette Lewis plays the lead role as Kelly, an ex-punk rocker turned rural mommy who is classic for her past. She forms a not likely bond with a wheelchair-bound teenage neighbor, Cal, played by Jonny Weston. The plot revolves around their special friendship and how they help each other rediscover life's pleasures.
Plot SummaryKelly is trying to accustom to her seemingly dull new life in suburbia as a stay-at-home mama while coming to grips with the tendency to feel trapped and under-appreciated. Cal is a 17-year-old confined to a wheelchair due to a mishap, having problem with the drastic change in his life from an energetic being to a handicapped teenager, longing for self-reliance and social approval.
Their worlds clash when Kelly, annoyed with her baby's persistent sobbing, actions outside and Cal strikes up a discussion from the surrounding yard. They bond over their shared misery and their longing for the flexibility and self-identity they both when had. Kelly, who feels uninteresting and unappreciated by her partner and buddies, gets compassion, humor, and flirtatious attention from Cal.
As they spend more time together, their relationship deepens. It eventually raises eyebrows among their peers, and concern from Kelly's partner, Josh, played by Josh Hopkins, who warns Kelly about crossing limits with Cal. The characteristics in between Kelly and Cal assist progress their characters, leading Kelly to reconnect with her previous punk performances and Cal to end up being more accepting of his impairment.
ThemesThe movie explores themes of identity crisis, nostalgia, isolation, friendship, and self-acceptance. Kelly misses her free-spirited past, and Cal wishes for a future unhindered by his wheelchair. Their shared uneasyness allows them to form a bond that allows them to confront and embrace their realities. It discreetly depicts the midlife crisis a woman can face amidst motherhood and homely obligations, and the trials and tribulations of adolescence coupled with disability.
"Kelly & Cal" likewise challenges social standards around relationships by exploring the uncommon friendship between a wife and a teenager, motivating different interpretations of love, companionship, and understanding.
Vital Response"Kelly & Cal" was received positively by critics for its respectful portrayal of disability and intricate insight into suburban motherhood. Lewis and Weston were both praised for their performances and on-screen chemistry, bringing life to their complicated characters. The movie effectively browses the challenging terrain of unconventional relationships while developing a narrative arc that is both touching and credible.
In summary, "Kelly & Cal" is a genuine exploration of life's transitions and the frequently complex journey of self-discovery. It's a touching story about the not likely friendship between an ex-punk rocker having problem with her brand-new life as a rural mom and a wheelchair-bound teenager, as they motivate each other to accept their real selves.
Top Cast
