Watch Zelly And Me
- PG
- 1988
- 1 hr 28 min
-
6.0 (460)
Zelly And Me is a heartwarming comedy-drama from 1988 that stars Isabella Rossellini, Alexandra Johnes, and Glynis Johns. The film tells the tale of a young girl, named Ceil (played by Alexandra Johnes), who is sent to live with her eccentric grandmother (Glynis Johns) in a small town in the countryside. The story follows Ceil's adventures as she develops new relationships, discovers family secrets, and learns to cope with the challenges of growing up.
At the start of the film, we see Ceil's world turned upside down when her parents announce that they are getting a divorce. In an effort to give her some stability during this difficult time, they send her to live with her grandmother, Zelly (Glynis Johns), whom she has never met before. Zelly is an eccentric and unpredictable character, known for her unconventional habits and her love of animals. She lives in a quaint farmhouse in the countryside, surrounded by chickens, goats, and a host of other critters.
As Ceil settles into her new surroundings, she begins to explore the town and make new friends. She meets a boy named Tuttle (played by David Lynch regular Benjamin) who shares her love of animals and helps her to navigate the local landscape. She also forms a special bond with Zelly, despite the many disagreements and misunderstandings that they have along the way. Through their interactions, Ceil begins to learn more about her family history and the secrets that have been kept from her.
One of the key characters in the film is a small dog named Cat, who Ceil adopts and takes under her wing. Cat becomes a central figure in the story, and her antics provide some of the most memorable and heartwarming moments in the film. Over time, Ceil learns to care for Cat and develops a deep bond with the little pooch.
As the film progresses, we see Ceil mature and grow more confident. She confronts her fears, makes new friends, and learns to embrace her unique qualities. She also begins to uncover some of the family secrets that have been locked away for years, which helps her to better understand her own identity and purpose.
The performances in the film are top-notch, particularly those of Alexandra Johnes and Glynis Johns. Johnes brings a charming and vulnerable quality to Ceil, conveying her struggles and triumphs in equal measure. Johns, a veteran actress of stage and screen, is perfectly cast as Zelly, exuding a mix of quirkiness, warmth, and stubbornness that makes her character truly unforgettable. Isabella Rossellini also makes a brief appearance in the film, playing a supporting role as a quirky local artist.
Overall, Zelly And Me is a delightful film that captures the magic of childhood and the importance of family bonds. It is a touching and poignant reminder that even in the face of adversity, love and kindness can prevail. Anyone who enjoys heartwarming family dramas or animal-centric films is sure to find something to love in this classic movie.