Watch Liza, Liza, Skies Are Grey
- 2017
- 1 hr 26 min
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6.6 (101)
Liza, Liza, Skies Are Grey is an indie coming-of-age romantic drama film, directed and co-written by Terry Sanders. The movie is set in 1966, during the Vietnam War, in the United States, and features two teenagers, Liza and Brett, who fall in love with each other during a camping trip to California's Big Sur coast. The film explores themes such as first love, identity, family, and independence.
The movie stars Madison Iseman as Liza, a 16-year-old high school girl who lives in the suburbs of Los Angeles. Liza is portrayed as a bright and perceptive teenager who is struggling to fit in with her peers and to follow the expectations of her conservative parents. As the movie unfolds, Liza discovers that she has a passion for photography and that she wants to pursue her artistic dreams, despite the objections of her parents.
Mikey Madison plays Brett, a self-assured and charismatic boy who Liza meets during a summer camp. Brett is from a different background than Liza - he has traveled extensively with his bohemian parents, who have instilled in him a sense of freedom and spontaneity. Brett and Liza quickly connect with each other and embark on a road trip to Big Sur, where they hope to find a secluded beach and spend some time alone.
The chemistry between Madison and Mikey is one of the strongest aspects of the movie - their banter, flirting, and awkwardness feel authentic and endearing. As Liza and Brett explore the scenic California coast, they face various obstacles that test their relationship and their personal growth. They encounter a quirky hitchhiker, a hostile campground ranger, and a friendly hippie couple who offer them some much-needed advice.
The film also delves into Liza's complicated family dynamics. Her mother (played by Kristin Minter) is a strict and overprotective woman who wants Liza to focus on her studies and to avoid any distractions. Her father (played by John-Paul Lavoisier) is more sympathetic to Liza's aspirations, but he is also worried about the impact of the war and the social changes on their way of life. Liza's younger brother (played by Sean H. Scully) provides some comic relief and sibling rivalry, as he tries to horn in on Liza's adventure.
The cinematography of the movie is striking, capturing the lush landscapes and the natural beauty of California. The music is also a highlight, featuring classic songs from the 1960s, including The Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, and The Lovin' Spoonful. The soundtrack evokes the nostalgia and the romanticism of a bygone era, and it complements the mood of the film.
Overall, Liza, Liza, Skies Are Grey is a heartwarming and charming indie movie that captures the spirit of youthful rebellion and hopefulness. It provides a refreshing look at a time period that is often romanticized or vilified, offering a nuanced and compassionate portrayal. The film is suitable for audiences of all ages, particularly those who enjoy coming-of-age stories, road trips, and romantic dramas. It is a beautiful and memorable tribute to the transformative power of love and self-discovery.
Liza, Liza, Skies Are Grey is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 37.