Causeway (2022)

OK Drama - Causeway review by GI

A well meaning drama that is all just a little too neat and risk free to make it really good despite the first class performances from Jennifer Lawrence and Brian Tyree Henry. We get a good glimpse at the Lawrence who shot to acclaim in Winter's Bone (2010) here in this sincere film about a mentally and physically wounded soldier trying to recuperate. Lawrence is Lynsey who was involved in an IED attack in Afghanistan and the film begins with her recovery with the help of a nurse but her recovery is rushed through the narrative until we get Lynsey back at home having to reignite a relationship with her rather insensitive mother (Linda Emond) and where old family traumas prove just as hard to overcome as her battle injuries. Her journey to happiness comes from her relationship with a sensitive local mechanic played by Henry. Both are excellent but the narrative is all a bit light and over sentimental making for an unrewarding film. It's all a bit risk free and whilst it's worth checking out it lacks the actual drama that is always hinted at.