Flower

Flower, an indie dark comedy-drama film from 2017, blends humor and distressing subject matters masterfully, creating a cinematic experience that's rich in both laughter and thought-provoking moments. The movie, directed by Max Winkler and featuring an ensemble cast led by Zoey Deutch, Kathryn Hahn, and Tim Heidecker, is a probing exploration of complex human emotions, troubling familial dynamics, and the scars left by horrors from the past.

The narrative pivot of Flower pivots around Erica Vandross, powerfully portrayed by Zoey Deutch. Erica, a free-spirited and brash 17-year-old, lives in the San Fernando Valley with her single mother, Laurie (Kathryn Hahn). Erica has an unconventional way of dealing with her perceived moral imperfections in the world around her. Erica and her wit-filled, yet misguided justice league of best friends Kala (Dylan Gelula) and Claudine (Maya Eshet) delve into the world of teenage rebellion, which includes faux kidnappings and extortive attempts for money—systems that challenge the conventional notions of right and wrong. Despite her questionable antics, Erica’s quick tongue and vivid persona provide the film with humor and charm, making her a character who is riveting to watch.

Flower brings a deeper dimension to its narrative when Erica’s life takes a shift after her mother invites her new boyfriend Bob (Tim Heidecker) to live with them. Bob's emotionally troubled son, Luke (Joey Morgan), fresh from rehab, also moves in with them, and an initial mutual wariness quickly transforms into something more complicated. As Luke unfolds his tormented past, Erica and her band of seemingly anarchic friends get entangled in a mission seeking revenge, justice, and redemption which takes them through a chaotic path.

Kathryn Hahn impresses with her portrayal of a mother desperate to keep her family together but failing to provide her daughter the emotional stability she needs. Tim Heidecker delivers a grounded performance as an earnest but flawed man, who finds himself treading uncertain familial terrain. Joey Morgan deftly captures the vulnerability and bruised innocence of Luke as he grapples with the demons of his past. The movie also explores the dynamics of Erica and Luke's relationship, its evolution from hostility to friendship, and finally something more profound.

The film effectively uses its unique blend of comedy and drama to explore complex themes, making Flower a thought-provoking teenagers’ venture that does not shy away from the chaotic and messy aspects of adolescence. Director Max Winkler expertly navigates this delicate balance and, coupled with the screenplay by Alex McAulay, Matt Spicer, and himself, provides a platform for intriguing discussion on consent, emotional trauma, justice, and the ways in which young people might cope when the adults in their lives fail them.

Flower's humor helps in palliating its grimmer aspects, while its sensitive portrayal of troubled adolescence and abuse shrouds the narrative with a sense of gravity. The film balances the comedic aspects with the underlining serious issues in an authentic way, avoiding any glamorization or trivialization of the issues at its core.

The cinematography by Carolina Costa captures the contrasting elements of everyday suburban life and the unruly darkness that bubbles beneath its surface. Meanwhile, the music, composed by Joseph Stephens, perfectly complements the tonal shifts in the movie, amplifying both the light-hearted moments as well as the dramatic instances of the narrative.

Flower, while not shying away from depicting the grim realities and repercussions of traumatic pasts, balances its narrative with welcome splashes of humor and tenderness, resulting in a movie that is not only engaging but leaves the audience with much to ponder upon. This film positions Zoey Deutch as a fascinating and capable leading lady, and showcases the range of emotions she can depict quite effectively. The standout performances from the rest of the cast, coupled with the thoughtfully written script and expertly navigated direction, make Flower a compelling watch. Although it can be uncomfortable at times due to its challenging themes, Flower nonetheless offers an unconventionally poignant look at adolescence, trauma, and the pursuit of justice.