Mouthpiece (2019)

Mouthpiece Poster

Based on a stage play of the same name by Amy Nostbakken and Norah Sadava, the story follows Cassandra, who is portrayed by the two women, expressing the opposing voices that exist inside the modern woman's head, during a 48-hour period as she tries to organize the affairs for her mother's funeral.

Overview
"Mouthpiece" is a fascinating and inventive Canadian drama launched in 2019. Directed by Patricia Rozema and based upon a granted play, this movie is a promoting exploration of female identity and the complexities of womanhood. The plot centers on the internal conflict faced by a girl called Cassandra, who's dealing with the sudden death of her mom Eleanor.

Story and Plot
The story features a distinct narrative method where two actresses depict Cassandra, Amy Nostbakken and Norah Sadava, likewise the authors of the original play. This dual-performance venture illustrates the continuous self-confrontation, internal discussions, and duality experienced by the lead character.

The story starts with Cassandra receiving the terrible news of her mother's death. Now, she is entrusted with composing and presenting the eulogy at her mother's funeral service. Struggling with her mixed sensations towards her mother, ranging from affection to bitterness, she comes to grips with choosing how she wishes to represent the life of her mother.

Cinematic Style and Themes
"Mouthpiece" uses a dreamlike and non-linear narrative where past and present are interjected. This method efficiently communicates the complexity of Cassandra's ideas as she browses her sensations and her sorrow. Series from her youth and interactions with her mother are used to illustrate their complicated relationship.

The film harp on themes of female identity, the intricacies of mother-daughter relationships, and social expectations for females. At its core, "Mouthpiece" highlights the struggles ladies face under societal pressures and the continuous conflict between self-expression and conformity.

Performances
Amy Nostbakken and Norah Sadava deliver exceptional efficiencies as the 2 halves of Cassandra. The intricacies of their joint portrayal, from completing each other's sentences to taking part in conflict with one another, are carefully choreographed and magnificently performed, heightening the representation of inter-personal turmoil. Maev Beaty, playing the departed mom Eleanor, contributes meaningfully through her flashbacks.

Reception
"Mouthpiece" is a mentally poignant and interesting commentary on womanhood that challenges regular conventions of storytelling. It was well received by audiences and film critics alike, praised for its unique narrative method and strong efficiencies. The film articulately represents the internal battle of a female in sorrow while all at once providing a vital commentary on societal expectations put on women.

The movie was chosen for and won several awards, including the Rogers Best Canadian Film Award at the Toronto Film Critics Association Awards.

Conclusion
Simply put, "Mouthpiece" is an appealing, thought-provoking drama that uses fresh perspectives on womanhood and self-identity. Through its unconventional narrative and extreme performing, it offers a nuanced view of a grieving female's experience. The film substantially underscores the intricacies of contemporary female identity and the classic mother-daughter characteristics.

Top Cast

  • Norah Sadava (small)
    Norah Sadava
    Short Cassandra
  • Amy Nostbakken (small)
    Amy Nostbakken
    Tall Cassandra
  • Maev Beaty (small)
    Maev Beaty
    Elaine
  • Taylor Belle Puterman (small)
    Taylor Belle Puterman
    Little Cassandra
  • Jess Salgueiro (small)
    Jess Salgueiro
    Roxanne
  • Paula Boudreau (small)
    Paula Boudreau
    Aunt Jane
  • Ari Cohen (small)
    Ari Cohen
    Dad
  • Jake Epstein (small)
    Jake Epstein
    Danny
  • Bruce Hunter (small)
    Bruce Hunter
    Uncle Jake
  • Sharon Lewis (small)
    Sharon Lewis
    Barbara
  • Paloma Nuñez (small)
    Paloma Nuñez
    Nylons Lady