‘Wicked Little Letters’ Capsule Review: One Of The Great Surprises Of The Year
From Sony Pictures Classics
Capsule Reviews feature a collection of thoughts from Sean Phillips (Math Teacher Movies) on films from recent days, as well as the past year, decade, and beyond.
From Sean Phillips
Wicked Little Letters is a rare hidden gem that isn't making waves, but it’s unassailable and deserves to be seen as one the great surprises of the year. There are good people and bad people in this world, but more importantly there are a lot of people in the gray area and this movie focuses on them.
Olivia Colman plays what may easily be the most complicated character, fluctuating between villain and victim, never remaining consistent yet still having a brilliant dedication to her dimension throughout.
Jessie Buckley has the pleasure of playing the more fun character that is expressive with a degree of comic relief, but also manages to carry the weight of the character when needed.
Anjan Vasan is one of the more important characters. While she is not involved in the main plot, she drives the narrative and also manages her own conflict.
Timothy Spall was the true villain of this film and committed to the character by having a terrifying presence while revealing his weaknesses through toxicity.
The premise of this story is simple and yet it folds out into something with depth because of the characters that are affected by the situation. Wicked Little Letters adequately shows how mental health is affected through emotionally abusive relationships.
Within the dialogue, this film handles the sophomoric and immature art of cursing in wondrous form. There are heavy issues that are explored throughout, but it maintains this wholesome sheen.
From costumes to production design, Wicked Little Letters is committed to the time of which it takes place, being loyal to the period in every detail. While there is a crime and mystery element, the comedy is what stands out as the film has a bouncy and jovial atmosphere peppered with the occasional emotional sting.
Rating: 5/5
This film is currently available to stream on Netflix.
