Film Review: Martha Marcy May Marlene
When I first heard the title of this film I thought I'll never get it right, but once I heard the reasoning for the names and saw them within the context of the film, it became quite memorable. This film is also very memorable and the subject matter resonates. Despite dragging in parts, I found the film interesting. The characters are all rich and provide insight without explanation. Martha (who is also Marcy May and Marlene) is an escapee from a cult who has to not only adapt to society, but also struggle with the memories of what she thought was a loving, giving environment, while trying to deal with the shaky relationship she has with her estranged sister and brother-in-law. What's interesting about this film is that neither world seems to work for Martha. Her real family is distant, strict and not compassionate enough for her needs. Her sister wasn't around much when Martha was a child, so it's easy to see why Martha doesn't feel any love for her....