After a devastating loss, it's not always clear how someone will react, and some responses can be surprising because even the person experiencing them might struggle to understand. It becomes even more difficult when finding the right words feels impossible, hindering any attempt to fully express what’s felt. This complexity is at the heart of the challenges faced by Agnes Ward (played, written, and directed by Eva Victor in her first feature film). The story unfolds across different points in time over several years, tracking a graduate student and professor (Victor) studying English literature at a small college in rural New England as she tries to process what happened. As she attempts to make sense of her emotions, figure out how to manage the situation and any consequences that might arise, and consider the event’s effect on her life and perspective, she examines various possibilities and feelings. Along the way, she has conversations with people like her close friend (Naomi Ackie), a friendly but somewhat awkward neighbor (Lucas Hedges), a competitive colleague from the university (Kelly McCormack), and a sandwich shop owner (John Carroll Lynch) who helps her through a severe panic attack while driving. These discussions often include a mix of heartfelt observations, dark humor, and straightforward admissions. However, this is where the film’s biggest problem lies – these different story elements don't quite fit together, leaving viewers unsure of what the narrative will ultimately become (despite the central character’s uncertain response to her situation). It feels like the movie is constantly trying to convey a deep understanding that it can’t quite manage to articulate, which becomes increasingly frustrating as the film progresses. This is disappointing given the seriousness of the subject matter, but the intended impact isn't achieved, presenting the audience with seemingly random events and characters that suggest something significant but never truly develops. The movie does have some genuinely compelling moments, supported by strong acting and beautiful visuals. But these positive aspects aren’t enough to redeem what is ultimately a wandering effort that seems unable to resolve its own questions, resulting in an ambitious yet fundamentally disappointing experience.

Source on TMDB