Perfectly rated but unknown film boasts 'superb performances' with rising star

Daily Record

10 hours ago

Mickey and the Bear is a 2019 film which is the debut of director Annabelle Attanasio and stars Camila Morrone, James Badge Dale, Calvin Demba and Rebecca Henderson
Director Annabelle Attanasio's first feature, Mickey and the Bear, is a heartfelt coming-of-age drama featuring Camila Morrone and James Badge Dale in leading roles, with Calvin Demba, Rebecca Henderson, and Ben Rosenfield offering strong support.
Despite receiving a perfect 100 per cent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the 2019 indie film saw modest box-office returns, earning just $57,188 globally. Attanasio not only directed but also wrote the screenplay for the film, garnering critical acclaim; one critic hailed it as "a rare and remarkable feat to pull off so well for a first-time director".
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Another review praised the film, stating: "Filmmaker Annabelle Attanasio's debut film is an honest and empathetic look at the toughest parts of someone's upbringing with incredible performances from its two stars."
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Mickey and the Bear delves into the life of teenager Mickey Peck and her complex relationship with her opioid-dependent, war veteran father, Hank. Set against the backdrop of Anaconda, a small town in Montana, the film explores the intense bond between Mickey and her father, marked by love, volatility, and toxicity, while highlighting Mickey's internal struggle between family loyalty and her aspiration for independence and a brighter future.
Dale and Morrone's intense portrayals garnered acclaim from both critics and audiences, as noted by a reviewer: "James Badge Dale and Camila Morrone are achingly real here. The film's script gives them plenty to do, and both ace their difficult roles."
One admirer expressed delight in the performances: "Absolutely amazing, Camila is a rising star." Another reviewer highlighted the movie's genuine feel: "Rich in authenticity with superb performances by Camila Morrone and James Badge Dale. One of the best Indie films of 2019."
A critic commended the overall quality and memorable conclusion of the film: "Bolstered by a phenomenal cast and an ending that will leave the audience breathless, there is not a single misstep in the entire production."
Echoing the sentiment, a viewer appreciated the unexpected experience: "I went in without even watching the trailer and was blown away. Strong acting from Morrone and Badge Dale. Wouldn't be surprised to see it win an award."
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The film's star, Camila Morrone, comes from an illustrious acting pedigree as the daughter of Argentine actors Lucila Solá and Maximo Morrone, and stepdaughter to Al Pacino, reports the Mirror US.
Discussing her role, Morrone shared with Forbes: "I read a lot of scripts, but few of them stand out to me. So for me, it was that when I read the script, I didn't even get through it, and I was like, 'this is something I want to do.' I could just tell it had the elements of characters that I'm interested in playing. So I was already instantly drawn to it."
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The film has captivated viewers, with one singing high praises for rookie director Attanasio: "I was sceptical before seeing Mickey and the Bear, as I am with all movies that score such high ratings... but after 15 minutes I was convinced of Annabelle Attanasio's raw talent to write dialogue and knack for layered storytelling. For such a young writer she has skill and knowledge way beyond her years."
One enthusiastic fan exclaimed: "Absolutely the best movie I've seen all year. Everyone needs to see this film, ESPECIALLY while it's in theaters. Not to be missed!".
Additionally, another cinema-goer commented: "Fantastic acting, writing, and filming makes this group of newcomers top notch."