‘Two Ways Home’: A well-made indie movie that explores mental health issues through a heartwarming story
This review does not contain spoilers!
It’s disheartening how mental health issues still tend to bother society, making it stigmatize those who suffer from various conditions. Despite psychology being a subject of study for hundreds of years, people have not yet learned to come to terms with it or even accept those with severe issues. Hence, it remains an important subject matter of discussion through art, literature, and entertainment.
In this independent movie in question, we see such a brilliant attempt by its director Ron Vignone, addressing the pressing issue.
‘Two Ways Home’ follows the journey of Kathy (Tanna Frederick), who after being released on parole, heads to her country home in Iowa to reconnect with her family, especially with her old grandfather and her 12-year old estranged daughter. Getting back in a family environment, Kathy finds it a challenge to adapt to her new life and lifestyle, while struggling with her bipolar disorder and inner demons. She continues to push forward, despite how tough she finds this new life. The movie is more about self-healing than merely facing challenges.
The 90-minute feature talks about mental health but doesn’t come across as a clichéd, hard-hitting social movie. Rather, it is a heartwarming story of family, relationships, and self-discovery while talking about bipolar disorder and driving audiences' attention towards how important mental wellness is.
If this movie is a successful attempt in driving a message about an existential crisis, then it was made possible because of the character portrayal. And the credit for that only goes to Tanna Frederick, who plays the lead role of Kathy.
A filmmaker, actor, and writer, Frederick’s character stands as an inspiration to millions of women suffering from similar conditions or going through similar situations in life. Both way, her character sketch fits in perfectly, and her acting even more.
Kathy is independent but vulnerable, bold yet sensitive, making her a character that many with BPD can identify with. And yet her character’s journey is never condescending to real people. As the audience, we can only hope that this movie makes valuable contributions to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and helps people find the courage to face their challenges, seek help, and heal.
To summarize, ‘Two Way Home’ fits in right with the ongoing discussions on mental health crisis and rising awareness on the subject and makes for a must-watch.
‘Two Ways Home’ will host its next screening at the Golden State Festival on Saturday, February 29, 2020.