Truth is often stranger than fiction and singer/actress and author Zara Phillips’ book turned, one-woman show, turned film/documentary is an adventure in reality that is hilarious, bizarre, wild, warm and emotional.
All at the same time.
The 51-minute run-time seems short at first, but considering how much occurs over the course of the film, it’s a full story, with a clear tone and message- one that’ll make you contemplate your own life.
So much more than the sum of its own parts, it’s funny at first, but then grows on you thanks to some wonderful stories. Director Liam Galvin does a good job making the most of a small setup. The multiple usage of Phillips’ voice works great and the camera changes maximize the often self-deprecating tone.
Away from the fun tales, loads of British humor, there are intense moments. Her quest to find her biological mom and later father, is at the heart of the film, but it’s ultimately an adventure in self-discovery. From childhood, your 20s, to marriage, all elements of one’s life are tackled here. However, a lot of these moments find their way back to Phillips’ longing to find out where she comes from.
While the notion of being adopted may be foreign to some, Phillips attacks it in a way that is ultimately empathetic, passionate and human.
Because of that, even if you don’t feel like the film is something you can connect with at first, just give it a few minutes. If you do, the reward is almost instantaneous. These stories mean something and the person behind them is a treasure.
A fun ride, with equal parts Sex in the City, Freaks and Geeks and How I Met Your Mother, this documentary has a way of grabbing a hold of you and not letting go.
Leave a Reply