Lola Kirke shines as Tracy, a somewhat out-of-place college freshman who is living on her own in New York City. With things not working out as expected she reaches out to Brooke (Greta Gerwig), her stepsister-to-be, and quickly finds herself enthralled by Brooke's fas- paced life and spontaneous demeanor. But things don't always work out like you'd expect, and these two ladies are in for a rude awakening when they begin to realize just who they each are becoming.
Relying heavily on the performances of both Kirke and Gerwig, as well as its superb dialogue, Mistress America is a breath of fresh air as it centers around authentic, honest people who are as downright horrible and narcissistic as they come. The dry wit and real life antics help drive the story home, allowing us to understand just how self aware the characters are as they navigate their lives and attempt to fill their every need.
The pace, anxious and unapologetic, is perfectly played, keeping the story going through quick dialogue and scene progression. Gerwig relies on her instincts throughout, creating a character that you can't quite figure out as she speeds through life without so much as a second thought. Her impulsive nature is hard to pin down, and she will wear you out by the hour mark. But it should be noted that this is an important part of her character. Quick to act, Brooke is the prime example of the millennial generation, and her mannerisms and jack-of-all trades mentality only personify that.
Complement her with Kirke, who as Tracy is a fish out of water in her own life, and the dynamic couldn't be more intriguing. Showcasing New York City from both inside and out, the film rapidly brings the two worlds together, and the outcome is a fluid combination of hilarity and self-realization.
The story itself, written to near perfection by director Noah Baumbach, isn't pretty, nor is it tied up nicely with a bow. It is, however, a unique and addictive showcase of life. I will admit that plot holes do exist, and the film does occasional veer on the unbelievable; however, the comedy helps to nullify that, keeping things moving without a moment of hesitation.
Mistress America is not a film for everyone as many will find it disheveled and abrasive. But for those who can relate, the film is the perfect example of just how difficult it is to maneuver our way through life.
