Watch Grown Up Movie Star

Grown Up Movie Star, released in 2009, is a Canadian film that explores the complexities of family relationships and growing up. The film was directed by Adriana Maggs and stars Shawn Doyle, Tatiana Maslany, and Julia Kennedy. The film follows the story of Ruby, a teenage girl who is struggling to find her place in the world. Ruby's mother, Rosemary, is a faded beauty queen and former actress who has been struggling to find work for years. Her father, Ray, is a former ice hockey player who now works at a local lumberyard. Ruby's older sister, Lurleen, has already left home, leaving Ruby feeling lost and alone.

As the film opens, Ruby is dealing with the aftermath of her mother's affair with a local musician. Trying to escape her unhappiness, Ruby begins to act out, engaging in reckless behavior and experimenting with drugs and alcohol. At the same time, she begins to take on the role of caretaker for her father, who is struggling to cope with the loss of his wife.

Meanwhile, Rosemary is trying to reignite her acting career, with little success. When she is offered a small part in a television series being filmed in Newfoundland, she decides to take a chance and leaves Ruby and Ray behind.

As Rosemary's absence stretches on, Ruby finds herself increasingly isolated and struggling to find a sense of direction. She begins to find solace in the company of a wayward older man, while Ray tries to reconnect with his daughters and figure out how to move on from his wife's departure.

Grown Up Movie Star is a poignant and often heartbreaking portrayal of a family struggling to come to terms with their own grief and loss. The film explores themes of growing up, family relationships, and the search for connection and meaning.

The standout performance in the film comes from Tatiana Maslany, who portrays Ruby with a raw and powerful vulnerability. Through her portrayal of an adolescent girl struggling to navigate the difficult terrain of grief and upheaval, Maslany captures the complexities and contradictions of adolescence with a striking authenticity.

Shawn Doyle is also excellent as Ray, bringing a nuanced and understated sensitivity to the role. His portrayal of a father trying to connect with his daughters and figure out how to move forward in the wake of his wife's departure is both moving and understated.

Julia Kennedy is also strong as Lurleen, bringing a sense of weariness and world-weariness to her portrayal of a young woman struggling to find her own way in the world. Her scenes with Maslany are particularly powerful, capturing the frustration and anger of sibling relationships with a biting wit and insight.

Overall, Grown Up Movie Star is a moving and insightful exploration of grief, loss, and growing up. With standout performances from its cast, a powerful script, and sensitive direction, the film is a must-see for fans of thoughtful, character-driven dramas.