Writer / director Annie Baker‘s slow burn indie film “Janet Planet” is one that takes its time, and whether that works for you really depends on your mood. This super quiet, artsy, coming-of-age movie tells the story of 11-year-old Lacy (Zoe Ziegler) and her free-spirited mom, Janet (Julianne Nicholson), who live in rural Massachusetts in the early ‘90s. The movie is about their highly relatable, complex relationship as Lacy grows up and starts pulling away from her mom. This is an experiential type of film that’s more about the vibe and the little moments than a straightforward plot.
What I really liked about this movie is how it feels like you’re just sitting with the characters in their quiet little world. Sounds of nature make up the majority of the soundtrack, which makes you focus on what’s going on between between Lacy and Janet (and their changing dynamic). With its deliberate, ambling pacing, the film can feel pretty slow at times. You really need to be in the right mindset to enjoy its quirks.
Ziegler’s performance as Lacy is a big highlight. She’s an odd, tough little girl who’s figuring out life in her own weird way. Her character is weirdly mature and often has deep conversations with adults as she quietly manipulates the people around her. It’s a complex role, and Ziegler is impressive in it. Nicholson is also perfectly cast as Janet, a mom who’s more of a friend than a parent. These two actors work well together, adding deeper layers to the complicated relationship that divides their characters.
“Janet Planet” is an offbeat story about trying your best to fit in with the world, especially when everyone else sees you as a stranger on the outside looking in. The film is slow and introspective, but it beautifully captures a deep dive into human dynamics and the very real pains of growing up.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 