The film, The Edge of Seventeen, was a feature that I felt really understood the workings of the teenage mind. Therefore, when I hear about the newest features from James L. Brooks, I am always intrigued to find out what he is working on representing on screen. 

In his latest feature, his first in a long time, Ella McCay, he manages to capture the toxic world of politics in his own way that is both entertaining and a little lacklustre. With a fantastic all-star cast, it has everything within it that should work. Yet, the comedic moments fail to hit and the story goes on a wild path that makes it hard to follow and believe. 

With the likes of Jamie Lee Curtis and Emma Mackey at the helm, they deserve so much more than what they get, as the script lacks in giving the young woman that Mackey plays the real drive that Mackey can definitely deliver. 

At moments, the story becomes so uncomfortable and boring that you find that you want to stop watching and find something else to entertain yourself with. But with a number of redeeming moments, it is worth the entire watch. Though, it doesn’t warrant a repeat screening. The only thing about it that is truly appealing is the soundtrack, as the 1950s vibe helps bring a life to it. 

Overall, the film lacks in so many areas that James L. Brooks has hit perfectly before. It is a sad affair, as the feature had so much potential to do well but really fails to nail them down! 

2 Stars

Joey X