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Gretchen is a 2005 American drama film directed by Steve Collins. The movie was shot on a low budget in Austin, Texas, but it did surprisingly well at multiple film festivals, receiving critical acclaim for its raw depiction of mental illness. The film follows the life of Gretchen, a twenty-something woman who suffers from severe depression and anxiety. Gretchen is a lost soul who seems incapable of finding her place in the world. She is unemployed and spends her days wandering aimlessly around her city, smoking cigarettes, and sitting in cafes. In the opening scene of the movie, we see her staring blankly at a train rushing past her, and it's apparent that she is struggling to find any meaning in her life.

Despite her struggles, Gretchen is a likable character who we quickly grow to care for. Her vulnerability makes her relatable and easy to root for. Courtney Davis gives an excellent performance as Gretchen, portraying her inner turmoil with subtlety and nuance. She manages to capture Gretchen's despair and anxiety without ever falling into caricature or self-pity.

The film takes a turn when Gretchen meets a man named Jimmy (John Merriman) while visiting a pet store. The two hit it off, and Gretchen seems to find comfort in his company. Jimmy is a sweet and caring guy who treats Gretchen with tenderness and respect. He is perhaps the only person in the film who sees Gretchen for who she is, rather than a broken person in need of fixing.

The relationship between Gretchen and Jimmy is a major highlight of the film. Their love story is sweet and genuine, and it's impossible not to root for them. John Merriman's performance as Jimmy is also noteworthy. He brings a sense of humor to the film and makes the character feel like a real person rather than a romantic foil.

However, their relationship is put to the test when Gretchen's brother sends her on a trip to visit her grandparents in Los Angeles. While in LA, Gretchen stops taking her medication and begins to spiral out of control. We see her struggle with her mental health in a way that is both heart-wrenching and powerful. The scenes where Gretchen's illness takes hold are difficult to watch, but they are also some of the most captivating moments in the film.

Macon Blair also gives a fantastic performance as Gretchen's brother, Andrew. He is a well-intentioned but somewhat clueless character, who is overwhelmed by the responsibility of caring for his sister. His frustration with Gretchen is understandable, but we also see the love he has for her and his desire to help her. It's a complex and nuanced performance that adds depth to the film's exploration of mental illness.

The cinematography in Gretchen is understated but highly effective. The film has a gritty and realistic feel, and the use of naturalistic lighting adds to its authenticity. The sound design is also noteworthy. The film's soundscape is minimal but highly impactful, creating a sense of unease that underscores Gretchen's mental state.

Overall, Gretchen is a powerful and moving film that explores mental illness with sensitivity and compassion. It's a film that doesn't offer easy answers or solutions but, instead, captures the complexity of mental health and the toll it takes on both those who suffer from it and those who love them. Courtney Davis gives a standout performance as Gretchen, and the supporting cast is also excellent. The film's low-budget roots are apparent, but they add to its authenticity rather than detracting from it. It's a film that is well worth seeking out, particularly for those who are interested in stories that explore mental illness with honesty and depth.

Gretchen is a 1970 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.