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| Alexander Skarsgard and Onata Aprile |
A contemporary reimagining of the Henry James' novel of the same name, the perceptive, heartbreaking and superbly acted "What Maisie Knew" tells the story of a captivating little girl's struggle for grace in the midst of her parents' bitter custody battle. Maisie (enchanting newcomer Onata Aprile) is the offspring two very selfish people, her unstable rock musician mother (Julianne Moore) and her disengaged art dealer father (Steve Coogan), both of whom become involved with people (Alexander Skarsgard, Joanna Vanderham) who may care for her more than her parents. Slow but thoughtful and discerning, "What Maisie Knew" is a powerful illustration of what happens to children from the child's point of view. Newcomer Aprile, in her debut feature film, is astonishing as the sullen, quietly precocious and mature Maisie who observes and knows everything that happens to her, but remains remarkably well-adjusted and resilient through it all. There are strong turns from the adults as well, particularly a scene-stealing Moore and Coogan as the bickering parents, as well as sensitive turns from Skarsgard and Scottish actress Vanderham. The narrative, a modern interpretation of James' novel, drifts and meanders episodically, but with each episode you will grow angrier at the inability of Maisie's parents to care for her, but its satisfying ending will have you hopeful for the people who do care for her. Co-directed and written by independent filmmakers Scott McGehee and David Siegel ("Bee Season"), the character-driven "What Maisie Knew" is affecting, painful but gratifying.
Wes's Grade: B
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