Sugar!

Sugar! is a 2016 American independent narrative feature film that blends the raw energy of rock 'n' roll with the complexities of the political landscape to create a story that is engaging, emotional, and thought-provoking. At its heart, the film explores the universal themes of following your dreams, standing up against authority, and fighting for what you believe in. Directed by Shari Berman, Sugar! stars Tony Winner Alice Ripley, well-known for her powerhouse performances on and off Broadway, Robert Clohessy from the fame of Blue Bloods, and the exquisite Kathryn Danielle Hirsch in memorable pivotal roles.

Alice Ripley skilfully plays the lead character, Leslie, a conservative middle-aged woman who is stuck in the rut of her high-powered job and a comfortable but dull marriage to Robert Clohessy's character, Robert Stanton. Their seemingly perfect life as a dynamic power couple in the political arena is underpinned by the rigidity and lack of authenticity that often accompany the world of politics.

Secretly, Leslie harbors an untapped talent and undying passion for singing and rock 'n' roll. She meets a group of vibrant young musicians who see her talent and encourage her to emerge from her repressive shell to embark on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. On a whim, she joins them as the lead vocalist in their band, innocently thinking that her arrow-straight political life and her newfound rock 'n' roll adventure would never intersect. However, the universe has a distinct way of following its course, and soon her secret double-life is under threat of exposure, especially when her husband decides to run for political office.

Kathryn Danielle Hirsch intelligently plays Julie, their daughter, who is caught in the crossfire between her parents' ambitions and her own personal journey. Julie's character resonates with many young adults with parents who have pre-set expectations for them, and her struggle to find her identity outside of her parents' shadow adds an additional layer of depth to the narrative.

Robert Clohessy delivers a nuanced performance as her husband, Robert Stanton. This well-respected senator does what he believes is best for him and his community but is often at odds with his wife's newfound artistic fervor. His journey to understand Leslie's need for creative expression, while struggling with the demands of his public image, adds an extra layer of intrigue to the movie.

The film beautifully represents the conflict between societal expectations and personal desires. The struggle Leslie battles inside to maintain her public facade while trying to nurture her rebellious streak forms the epicenter of the movie, making the audience continually question the concept of "right" and "wrong." Sugar! also highlights the fact that it's never too late to pursue your dreams, implying a consistent theme of empowerment and rebellion against societal norms.

The striking artistic visuals and impeccable production design offer a keen sense of the dichotomy between two disparate worlds: the polished yet dreary world of politics and the gritty yet vibrant environment of rock 'n' roll. Berman cleverly uses the power of music, with Alice Ripley lending her own distinct voice, to convey the emotional depth and complexity of the characters effortlessly.

One of the significant strengths of the film is its powerful performances, led by Alice Ripley. The stage might be different, but her command over the frame is just as hypnotic as her Broadway performances. Equally compelling are the performances of Robert Clohessy and Kathryn Danielle Hirsch, who perfectly capture the tenderness, conflict, and complexity of their respective characters.

Sugar! is more than just a movie about music and politics; it's a movie about passion and perseverance, about the courage to defy convention, and about the power of music. With its outstanding performances, captivating storytelling, thought-provoking themes, and infectious music, Sugar! is a film that resonates on many levels and stays with you long after the end credits roll.