Watch Helen

Helen is a compelling and poignant drama film released in 2009, directed by Sandra Nettelbeck. The film stars the talented actors Ashley Judd, Goran Visnjic, and Lauren Lee Smith. The movie depicts the struggles faced by a high-functioning woman as she battles with a severe case of clinical depression. Ashley Judd's character, Helen Leonard, is a highly successful professor of molecular biology. She is a driven and intelligent woman, highly respected in her field of work. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that Helen's life is not as perfect as it seems. She starts experiencing sporadic episodes of depression that worsen over time.

Helen's depression takes a more severe turn as she begins to feel like she is losing control of her life. She stops showing up at work, sleeps for long hours, and becomes more reserved around her family and friends. Judd delivers an astonishing performance in the role of Helen, capturing the character's vulnerability, inner turmoil, and descent into darkness.

The film explores the concept of mental illness in-depth, shining a light on how it affects not only the patient but also their loved ones. Helen struggles to find someone who understands her melancholic state, and her initial attempts to get help are largely unsatisfactory. Her partner, David, played by Goran Visnjic, tries his best to support her, but he is facing challenges of his own, including maintaining their home and looking after their children.

Lauren Lee Smith's character, Mathilda, comes into Helen's life when she is admitted to a psychiatric ward. Mathilda is outgoing and outspoken, the opposite of Helen, who is more reserved. Slowly but surely, Mathilda's presence helps to bring Helen out of her shell and begin to take the necessary steps to improve her mental health. Lauren Lee Smith provides an excellent performance as Mathilda, lighting up the screen with her infectious personality, reminding audiences that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope.

Overall, Helen is a moving and thought-provoking film that raises questions about mental health and the stigma surrounding it. The cast delivers a brilliant performance, with Ashley Judd, in particular, giving a standout turn as the protagonist of the story. The movie shows the pain and suffering that depression causes and how it affects not only the patient but those around them. With its powerful messages and heartfelt portrayal of the struggles faced by those with mental illness, Helen is an inspiring and beautiful film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, Helen is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates powerful and emotionally charged films. The movie deals with a subject matter that is still largely misunderstood, and it does so with sensitivity, compassion, and thoughtfulness. It is a reminder that while suffering from a mental illness may make life challenging, there is always hope and positivity. With excellent performances, beautiful directing, and a captivating story, Helen is a film that deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Helen is a 2009 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 59 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.