Renowned filmmaker James L. Brooks returns to the director’s chair with his latest film, Ella McCay, set to hit theaters on December 12, 2023. The film features Emma Mackey as Ella, a 34-year-old lieutenant governor navigating personal and political challenges in an unnamed U.S. state during 2008. Despite Brooks’ significant contributions to Hollywood, including The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Terms of Endearment, this latest venture has received a lukewarm response from critics.
The narrative centers on Ella, who is poised to step into the role of governor following the appointment of Governor Bill, played by Albert Brooks, to a presidential Cabinet position. However, her ascent is complicated by a needy husband, Ryan (Jack Lowden), an agoraphobic brother, Casey (Spike Fearn), and an unfaithful father, Eddie (Woody Harrelson). Despite these challenges, Ella maintains her optimistic outlook, supported by her aunt Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis), her assistant Estelle (Julie Kavner), and police escort Trooper Nash (Kumail Nanjiani).
Storytelling and Character Development
Critics have noted that Brooks’ storytelling in Ella McCay lacks focus. The film, which initially appears to present a straightforward narrative, begins to meander into subplots that dilute its impact. Key figures in Ella’s life, such as her brother and father, receive minimal screen time relative to their significance, while a subplot involving Casey’s attempts to win back his girlfriend, Susan (Ayo Edebiri), seems tangential.
The political backdrop of the story also struggles to find clarity. Ella and Governor Bill are implied to align with Democratic ideals, particularly through a program aimed at assisting mothers in need. Yet, the film fails to articulate Ella’s broader political aspirations, leaving audiences unclear about her motivations. The portrayal of Ella boring her fellow lawmakers adds to the confusion about her character, undermining the audience’s support for her journey.
Performances Bring Life to the Film
Despite its shortcomings, the film benefits from the performances of its lead actors. Mackey, known for her role in Sex Education, delivers a confident portrayal of Ella, making her character relatable even as the narrative falters. Curtis provides a grounding presence, offering warmth and stability amid Ella’s tumultuous surroundings. Their chemistry stands out as one of the film’s strongest elements.
Brooks seems to prioritize the development of his female characters, with Kavner delivering some of the film’s best comedic moments, despite serving as an unnecessary narrator. In contrast, male characters like Harrelson’s Eddie and Fearn’s Casey lack depth, detracting from the overall impact of their roles. Lowden’s performance as Ryan also falls flat, potentially due to the limitations of the character’s development.
While James L. Brooks has a storied career spanning over six decades, Ella McCay does not reach the heights of his previous works. Nevertheless, Mackey emerges as a promising talent, capable of carrying a film and elevating it beyond its shortcomings. As audiences prepare for its release, it remains to be seen how Ella McCay will be received in theaters this December.
