Directors Stephanie Allynne and Tig Notaro have brought to life the true story of friendship between producer Jessica Elbaum and writer Lauren Pomerantz in their debut feature, AM I OK?. Jane (Sonoya Mizuno) and Lucy (Dakota Johnson) are best friends who know everything about each other. But when Jane agrees to move to London for work, Lucy confesses her deepest secret: that she likes women. 

Allynne and Notaro have crafted such a simple yet charming film that soars because of the friendship that lies at the heart of the story, brought to life by two great performances. Mizuno and Johnson have great chemistry, which seamlessly makes these characters feel lived-in and relatable; we can see ourselves in Jane, we can see ourselves in Lucy. 

Everyone says that change is hard, but what does that really mean? It’s discovering new parts of yourself and realising that with this growth comes the possibility of falling apart from the people closest to you. Jane’s character yearns to move forward while also desperately holding onto the past and Mizuno contends with these emotions while maintaining a quick wit and tenderness that perfectly balances Johnson.

Each individual’s journey is different, but why doesn’t that help to ease this feeling of isolation? When Johnson whispers the two words: “I’m scared”, they can be heard echoing throughout the rest of the film. This certain type of apprehension and vulnerability in figuring out your sexuality is so recognisable in Johnson’s portrayal that it can be quite painful to watch. 

It’s a breath of fresh air to see women in their thirties who still don’t have their lives figured out. AM I OK? is a heartbreaking and healing love story between two best friends and their lives together and apart, beautifully penned by Pomerantz.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Dakota Johnson, Sonoya Mizuno, Jermaine Fowler, Kiersey Clemons, Molly Gordon, Sean Hayes

DIRECTORS: Stephanie Allynne, Tig Notaro

WRITER: Lauren Pomerantz

SYNOPSIS: As Jane tries to help Lucy, their friendship is thrown into chaos.

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