Justine

Justine is an eminent drama movie released in 2019, featuring Stephanie Turner, Glynn Turman, and Daisy Prescott in the leading roles. It has been meticulously directed by Stephanie Turner, who incidentally not just plays the main character, but is also the movie's writer. The skillful play of Turner both in front and behind the camera demonstrates her multifaceted talent and her unique understanding of the character she portrays.

The story revolves around a woman named Lisa Wade, portrayed by Turner, who is a single mother of two and a war widow fighting her battles with PTSD. Following her husband's tragic death, she's been going through trying times with her two daughters. A series of unfortunate circumstances and dwindling economic conditions leaves Lisa with no choice but to take up a job as a caretaker for a wheelchair-bound girl named Justine.

Justine, portrayed brilliantly by Daisy Prescott, is a young girl with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. She is also grappling with her emotional vulnerabilities and a constant yearning for independence. Her character demands a lot from the actor, and Prescott delivers, creating an evocative and empathetic portrayal of life with a severe physical disability.

Glynn Turman's character is an alluring addition to the storyline, embodying the tough but caring grandfather, Papa Don. Papa Don displays a warm mellowness tempered by real-world wisdom, emitting a unique glow that makes his presence felt throughout the film.

Despite initial hiccups, both Lisa and Justine start to understand each other better, forging a bond that goes beyond a mere employer-employee relationship. Their mutual journey traverses the oft-ignored themes of acceptance, empathy, and understanding as both the characters grow, adapt, and learn from each other.

Justine aptly captures the challenges of a lower-class family trying to scrape by and offers an eye-opening perspective on disability - the day-to-day struggle, the intermittent frustration, and the fervent need for independence. At the same time, it also touches upon relevant societal issues such as the struggles of life as a war widow, the strain of PTSD, and the lack of support for veterans and their families.

Stephanie Turner, for her part, shines in her directorial debut. She adeptly weaves a poignant narrative, keeping her audience invested throughout. Her portrayal of Lisa is spot-on as she successfully brings to the foreground the emotional rawness and vulnerability of a struggling single mother.

Another triumph of Justine lies within the rapport between Lisa and Justine. The caring friendship that blossoms between the two despite their initial differences and hardships is beautifully portrayed. Their relationship, while underpinned by care and responsibility, evolves into something far deeper, making the audience genuinely care about their well-being.

Justine is not an average drama – it is an intricate depiction of unique lives faced with unusual circumstances. It is a narrative painted with the bold strokes of hard themes and the subtle nuances of human relationships. The movie is a celebration of hopeful resilience amidst struggle, bolstered by powerful performances and anchored by Turner's bold, humanistic direction.

In essence, Justine is a life-affirming drama that is bound to evoke mixed emotions, convincing viewers to reflect upon their privileges and showing them how love and empathy can bridge societal gaps. The movie's unique selling point lies in its raw depiction of life’s realities. It's a story less about triumph over adversity and more about how to endure, adapt, and find moments of joy despite it. It is a potent exploration of life in its most stripped-down form, echoing a resonant message of acceptance, understanding, and human resilience even in the most challenging circumstances.

The realistic performances, compelling storyline, and pertinent theme make Justine an emotional odyssey that offers a powerful cinematic experience. Moving, profound, and tear-jerking at times, this film promises to impact and stay with viewers long after the credits roll. With Stephanie Turner at the helm, Justine rises above a mere depiction of a struggling family, evolving into an inclusive exploration of human experience in the face of adversity.