Tully

Tully, a 2018 film directed by Jason Reitman, is a poignant tale of motherhood, friendship, and the daily struggles a woman is set to face under the magnifying lens of societal expectations. At the heart of this sublime tribute to maternity are Academy Award-winning actress Charlize Theron and the incredibly talented, Mackenzie Davis, both of whom deliver delightfully nuanced performances that leave a lasting impression.

Set in suburban America, the protagonist's story forms the foundation of the film's narrative. Charlize Theron portrays Marlo, a stay-at-home mother in the throes of an all-consuming, exhausting routine that accompanies her third pregnancy. Already juggling the demanding lifestyles of her two pre-existing children, one of whom suffers from a neurodevelopmental disorder, Marlo is at the verge of breaking down under the daunting pressures of motherhood, a sexless marriage, and an overall lack of self-identity. Ron Livingston plays the role of Marlo's affectionate if somewhat oblivious husband Drew, who is engrossed in his own work, unintentionally ignorant to the harsh realities of his wife’s everyday struggle.

As the hardships of Marlo's overwhelming existence increase with the arrival of her newborn and the perpetual care that he requires, a solution serendipitously presents itself in the form of a night nanny - a gift from her wealthier brother. Enter Tully, an enchanting young woman played by Mackenzie Davis, a night nanny who arrives after dark to soothe the baby and reestablish sanity in their messily chaotic household. Tully's character is as surprising as it is invigorating - she is as much a mysterious entity as she is a dream come true.

Underneath Tully's seemingly perfect and youthful exuberance lies a wealth of wisdom and knowledge about motherhood. She has a spiritual quality to her, expertly understanding Marlo's mental, emotional, and physical struggles, offering not just relief from her caregiving duties but also wisdom, companionship and a rejuvenating perspective on her blurring reality. Tully's arrival to Marlo’s life is like a breath of fresh air, bringing in positive changes and casting a refreshing glow in the otherwise dreary household.

The unique bond that gradually develops between Marlo and Tully forms the lifeline of this thought-provoking narrative. Through their nuanced interactions, we see an intimate account of two women from different generations navigating the often unspoken realities of motherhood. It beautifully portrays the bitter-sweet symphony of being a mother, the sacrifices it requires, the societal pressure it brings, all beautifully offset with the joy it bestows.

Subtle touches of humor permeate the film, providing small respites from the overwhelming fetters of Marlo’s monotonous reality. The screenplay penned by Diablo Cody, baptizes mundane aspects of daily life into veins of comedy, without distracting from the gravity of the issues at hand.

Through a tapestry of engaging storytelling, Tully is a profound yet life-affirming film that deftly shines a spotlight on the emotional algorithm behind the complexities of motherhood. It ventures into the rarely explored territory of Postpartum Depression (PPD), resonating strongly with mothers who have found themselves on the precipice under the weight of new motherhood.

Tully is not just another family drama. It is a profound exploration of the ups and downs of motherhood and friendship, and a raw exposition of societal expectations towards women and their bodies. It is a delectable composition of profound dialogues and moments, tender interactions combined with hard-hitting realities, and woven with a touch of mystery that lingers long after the credits roll.

In the end, while Tully is a mirror to every mother who has ever felt lost, it is also a tribute to the mother in every woman, stripping away the Instagram-worthy illusions and confronting the raw realities head-on. With its poignant narration, naturalistic production, and the jewel of a screenplay that it boasts, Tully is a masterpiece that requires an insightful mind to appreciate.

Through its compelling narrative and outstanding performances, Tully is a thought-provoking exploration of the struggles of motherhood, making it a must-watch for those who seek a heartfelt and complex tale painted with the strokes of outstanding cinematic art. Through the darkness and light of Marlo's journey, Tully manages to encapsulate the myriad nuances of life and womanhood. This movie is a two-hour illustration of the saying, "behind every successful woman, there is a tribe of other successful women who have her back."