Stories We Tell - B

Rated PG-13, 108 minutes

Polley's personal, absorbing family documentary "Stories We Tell"


Filmmaker and actress Sarah Polley

Canadian actress and filmmaker Sarah Polley ("Away from Her," "Dawn of the Dead") provides an insightful, very personal look at her family in the talky new documentary "Stories We Tell." Through interviews with family members and friends giving their version of events, Polley uncovers some family secrets while learning more of her mother, who died when Sarah was a young age. "Stories We Tell" is a revealing look at Polley's family, appealing to those with similar circumstances. Slow-moving and filled with an exceeding amount of conversations, reading of letters and staging of the events, it's poignant and often moving, particularly when Polley learns who her biological father is. Though a skillful look at uncovering truths and the memories we hold of our loved ones, "Stories" is also a tad self-absorbing, none too surprising given that Polley is the youngest of 5 siblings (and interesting since much of it is her interpretation of the events). Even with that, there are some memorable scenes, including the remarkable impassivity and humor her father who raised her has when he finally learns he isn't her biological father, and how little impact it has on he and his daughter's relationship; there's also the growing tension between daughter and biological father that eventually led to this film. Polley is a masterful director, and while "Stories We Tell" is flawed - it seems too concerned with telling different versions that reality seems a little lost at times - it's still a moving portrait and a unique perspective on family relationships. Definitely worth a look and playing at the Landmark Magnolia Theater in Dallas.
      
Wes's Grade: B