We Don't Belong Here

We Don't Belong Here is a 2017 American independent drama film with an all-star ensemble cast including Catherine Keener, Anton Yelchin, and Kaitlyn Dever. The film, directed by Peer Pedersen and produced by Adam Gibbs and Michael Roiff, ventures deep into the repercussions of mental illness on a family structure.

In We Don't Belong Here, Catherine Keener portrays Nancy Green, the matriarch of a dysfunctional and seemingly cursed family, whose problems extend along generational lines. Nancy is a mother who carries the world on her shoulders, always rushing to prevent her family from falling apart at the seams. Her vulnerable and dynamic character is brought to life by Catherine Keener's deeply emotional and moving performance.

Next in line is the late Anton Yelchin, in one of his last film roles, plays Max, the eldest son of the Green family. Max is a sensitive and deeply troubled young man diagnosed with mental illness. His character is highly complex and layered, pushing viewers to question the extent and implications of his mental health throughout the film. Yelchin's performance is compelling and leaves viewers engaged with his character's struggles, successes, and personal journey in understanding and coping with his mental illness.

Kaitlyn Dever plays the role of Lily Green, another of Nancy’s children, who struggles with the complicated dynamics of her family while also trying to navigate her own life. Dever’s compelling portrayal of Lily shows her handling family stress, personal disappointments, development issues, identity crisis, and navigating teen years, evoking a sense of empathy and relatability in the audience.

We Don't Belong Here uses a unique narrative structure that delves back and forth in time, revealing fragments of the family's past struggles, unanswered questions, and hidden secrets. The plot sequentially unravels as the characters question their identity, sincerity, authenticity, and the strong bond that holds them together despite their individual tribulations.

The film also raises important questions about mental health, interpersonal relationships, and family dynamics, exploring how each family member deals with Max's mental illness differently. There are themes of denial, acceptance, guilt, blame, and responsibility that are interwoven into the plot in complex and thoughtful ways.

All in all, We Don't Belong Here is a thought-provoking and emotionally potent film that sheds light on mental illness and its far-reaching effects on family dynamics. Through its captivating performances and cinematic storytelling, the film pushes audiences to reflect on the ways our societies understand and react to mental health issues, and the extent to which it impacts the lives of those affected and their loved ones.

The film's extraordinary cast, straightforward yet nuanced storytelling, and detailed direction make We Don't Belong Here an incredibly multifaceted film. It's a thorough exploration of a family in crisis that challenges viewers to look beneath the surface and grasp the long-lasting complications of mental illness. Its brutally sincere portrayal of mental health, and the ways it can unravel even the strongest familial bonds, is what sets this film apart.

A special mention should also go to the film's beautiful cinematography, which effectively utilizes dark and shadowy aesthetics to reflect the heavy and intense emotional landscape of the plot. The movie’s score also complements the movie’s moody atmosphere and helps to deepen the emotional connection to the storyline.

We Don't Belong Here is an impactful viewing experience that refrains from tying up its narrative in a neat bow, choosing instead to present a realistic portrayal of a troubled family. This film will linger in your mind long after the credits roll, pushing you to ponder the complexities of family, love, duty, and mental illness. It pushes the boundaries of traditional family dramas and ventures into psychological and emotional territories, which offers a fresh and enriching cinematic experience. The impeccable acting, compelling storyline, and thought-provoking themes make We Don't Belong Here a must-watch for those seeking a deep, emotional, and poignant film experience.