The Wasteland Reviewer

Hidden in the Wasteland: 20th Century Women (2016)

Why don’t all great movies get the credit they deserve? Films might be completely lost over time and might not have the distribution rights to reappear on streaming today. Some films might get lost in the shadow of better or more iconic films by the same director. A film can go under the radar in theaters because of limited releases or being overshadowed by bigger, more successful films. Films can even get lost in the immense libraries on streaming services. But these films we don’t talk about enough deserve that spotlight…welcome to Hidden in the Wasteland!

20^th Century Women (2016)

What defines the relationship between a mother and a son? That is the core foundation to Mike Mills’ drama 20^th Century Women which flew under the radar back in 2016. The story takes audiences back to 1979 as Dorothea navigates raising her teenage son Jamie. There is a disconnect as Dorothea enlists the aid of one of her borders (a free-spirited punk artist) as well as a savvy teenager who has a strong connection to Jamie. Mills delivers a layered character study full of timely needle drops, and crafty filmmaking.

How does Mills accentuate this story with his style of filmmaking? One of the most noticeable and distinct elements of the film is a unique storytelling element with our characters exploring their pasts and futures through narration and still photos. There is a unique atmosphere that Mills creates and the depth he gives his characters is palpable as it enrichens the cinematic experience. Mills works closely with cinematographer Sean Porter to make 20^th Century Women feel like a film ripped from the later 70s. That era is so interesting as the transition from 70s to 80s is seismic with the rise of punk and New Wave. The soundtrack is killer as well as music plays such a significant role in the divide between Dorothea and her son Jamie. Bands like Talking Heads and Buzzcocks just hit a specific vibe that is the rising angst and punk personality of Jamie and something that Dorothea struggles to understand. The presentation of this film is so specific and well-realized that it completely engrosses you.

What makes this film resonate so deeply? The way this film navigates human connections and what they do to shape our own lives. Jamie is a young and impressionable teen who is figuring out his identity. Dorothea, his mother, is just trying to connect with his son who is drifting apart from her. A specific line in this film has resonated so deeply with my connection with my own mother. “You get to see him out in the world, as a person. I never will”. Some people out there might be so close with their mother that they are 100% themselves in front of them…but that is not the case. Jamie explores his identity and sexuality while spending time with his crush, Julie, and one of his mother’s boarders, Abbie. The way the film explores this divide is fascinating in such an engrossing and compelling way. The way the film explores human condition is raw and honest. Dorothea learns more about the changing world from her borders. Jamie grows and explores with these other characters at his side. Each of them has their own personality and experiences which shape their connections with Jamie and Dorothea. Mills’ writing is so honest and authentic, which gives the films so much depth.

What is the special asset of Mills’ film? This cast is excellent. Annette Bening was the perfect casting for Dorothea. Few actors can balance an abrasive personality while being so engrossing and compelling. Bening also finds the layers of empathy and care that shine through this overbearing character. Strong, opinionated, and intelligent, Bening just breathes so many layers into this character. Lucas Jade Zumann delivers an authentic and believable performance as this young man. There is an awkwardness and relatability to Jamie and Zumann does heavy work to make sure this character clicks. The trio of supporting turns at the center of the story work so well. You could tell that Elle Fanning was such a star even 10 years ago as she brings a mysterious aura to Julie (Jamie’s crush). Her presence is compelling and there is a vulnerability that is quite human as well. Greta Gerwig brings her unique vibe to the young woman, Abbie, who is a punk rocker and a guide to Jamie in his exploration of his identity. Billly Crudup is one of the most overlooked actors working today and his turn as William is such a needed and unique addition to this story. His aloofness and calm approach to the world around him gives him a hippie-like vibe. His presence does wonders for Dorothea and Jamie as he helps loosen them up.

What makes 20^th Century Women such a hidden gem? This is such a rich and engrossing period drama from Mills. The soundtrack is attention-grabbing and fitting for the atmosphere that Mills wants to accomplish. The themes are layered and rich as they deepen this experience so well. Mills has a great cinematic eye and leverages it to bring this period to life so well. The cast is excellent as they bring so much to this script. This is one of the most meaningful coming-of-age stories and stories about parenting in a long time.