MOVIE REVIEW
Out of My Mind
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Genre: Drama, Coming of Age
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director(s): Amber Sealey
Writer(s): Daniel Stiepleman
Cast: Phoebe-Rae Taylor, Rosemarie DeWitt, Luke Kirby, Michael Chernus, Courtney Taylor, Judith Light, Jennifer Aniston
Where To Watch: premieres November 22, 2024 on Disney+

RAVING REVIEW: Amber Sealey's OUT OF MY MIND, fresh off its Sundance 2024 premiere, is set to make waves on Disney+ with its heartwarming story, sure to bring out the emotions in most. This film tells a deeply personal story through the eyes of a young girl, Melody Brooks, played charmingly by Phoebe-Rae Taylor, who is navigating a world unprepared for her reality.

In a remarkable debut, Taylor portrays our protagonist with a genuine passion that resonates. Her portrayal is enriched by Jennifer Aniston, whose voice-over work lends a Hollywood sheen to Taylor's internal dialogue. The heart of OUT OF MY MIND lies in its exploration of Melody’s dynamics with her parents: her dad, Chuck, depicted by Luke Kirby, and her mom, Diane (Rosemarie DeWitt.) They navigate the complex emotional terrain of hope, embodying the struggles and aspirations that parents of disabled children often face.

A significant narrative pivot occurs when Courtney Taylor’s Dr. Katherine Post spots Melody’s potential and champions her right to participate in the traditional classroom experience. This development alters the course of her life and serves as a critique of and commentary on the potential for reform in educational practices. It underscores the power of inclusivity and the positive ripple effects that can ensue when marginalized individuals are given a chance to thrive.

Despite its contemporary relevance, the film's 2002 setting occasionally feels disconnected from the present, particularly in its portrayal of disability education. While faithful to the original novel’s timeline, this choice risks alienating viewers familiar with more progressive educational methods. It would have been a better move just to move the timeline to today; outside of a few odd references throughout, you barely even know it’s set in a different time.

The ensemble cast, including Judith Light and Michael Chernus, enhances the film’s depiction of community attitudes toward disability. Light is a pillar of support in her role, contrasting with Chernus, whose character sometimes edges towards caricature in dramatized scenes. These performances illustrate the range of societal responses to disability, from allyship to misunderstanding.

Despite minor stumbles into cliché, OUT OF MY MIND excels in its core message of empathy, resilience, and understanding the protagonist's internal world. Taylor’s performance invites viewers to look deeper into the realities of living with a disability, challenging them to acknowledge the complex experiences of those affected. This is a welcome addition, focusing on those who thrive with cerebral palsy.

The film celebrates diversity and the importance of nurturing potential wherever it's found. With its heartfelt narrative and the indomitable spirit of its protagonist, OUT OF MY MIND is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of acceptance and the value of seeing beyond physical limitations. OUT OF MY MIND is an essential film that brings visibility to cerebral palsy and advocates for a deeper understanding of disability. It is a testament to human resilience and a must-watch for anyone looking to broaden their perspectives.

@DisneyPlus

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[photo courtesy of DISNEY+, BIG BEACH, DISNEY BRANDED TELEVISION, EVERYWHERE STUDIOS, PARTICIPANT, REUNION PACIFIC ENTERTAINMENT, WALT DISNEY PICTURES]

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