The subject of a soldier returning home and finding it hard to adjust to life has been tackled on screen many times before, but writer/director Liza Johnson’s subtle and simply told film offers a fresh look at just how hard it is.
When Kelli (Linda Cardellini) arrives back from active duty into the welcoming arms of her husband Mike (Shannon) and young daughters things appear at ease. She is happy to be at home, loves her husband, likes being with her friends again and welcomes the chance to be with her children. She has no war stories to tell – she worked in supplies – and saw no dead bodies, but she still cannot adjust to home life.
Cardellini (from ER) is terrific as Kelli, appearing in virtually every scene and generating a real sense of warmth and affection but also a slight unease and distrust in those around her. She is the real centre of the film, and carries the project with intelligence and compassion. Michael Shannon is equally impressive as her husband.
This story of a woman returning from war is both thoughtful and gently powerful. Linda Cardellini’s terrific performance demands attention, and the film marks Liza Johnson as a new talent in indie US cinema. - Mark Adams, Screen International
