Telling a Story With Proper Representation

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MOVIE REVIEW
Poppy
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Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Year Released: 2022
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director(s): Linda Niccol
Writer(s): Linda Niccol
Cast: Libby Hunsdale, Ari Boyland, Seb Hunter, Kali Kopae
Where To Watch: available on DVD March 10, 2026, order your copy here: www.amazon.com or on SVOD Platform, IndiePix Unlimited

RAVING REVIEW: Sometimes, equal representation is all that’s needed to bring an ordinary film to greatness. A film that succeeds because of the characters’ passion for the story being told genuinely takes itself to the next level.

If the role of Poppy (Libby Hunsdale) was given to an actor without down syndrome, I don’t think the story would’ve had nearly the impact, and it would’ve instead fallen into generic drama territory. I don’t think that down syndrome should be a conversation here, but unfortunately, we live in a world where it still is. You don’t often see films starring characters with an extra chromosome, and that’s a shame. Representation is a growing conversation in cinema, and I’m glad to see it covering all walks of life.

The story was compelling because I’ve seen firsthand what someone who doesn’t want to let go can do. Seeing Hunsdale take control of Poppy’s life and make it her own was awe-inspiring. Credit also goes to Ari Boyland, who plays Dave, Poppy’s older brother whose life changed one day, and in his struggle to adjust, found his ways to cope. The two play off each other as though they are brother and sister.

Seb Hunter, who plays Luke, the foil to Boyland’s character, brought out the struggles in the brother/sister relationship and their day-to-day life. Ultimately, I would’ve liked to have seen the third act go a little deeper than it did; I still enjoyed the culmination of the whole story.

The film features original songs written and performed by Hunter, adding another layer to the film that makes the experience feel much more personal. Hinsdale’s portrayal of Poppy is beyond inspiring; with her passion and will not to take no for an answer, we get to see the truth of the character behind the story.

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