TOW
Starring: Rose Byrne, Dominic Sessa, Octavia Spencer, Elsie Fisher, Simon Rex, Ariana DeBose, Demi Lovato, and Corbin Bernsen
Director: Stephanie Laing
AMARÚ
How can a recently Oscar-nominated actress feel like she’s underrated and under-appreciated? Somehow, that’s Rose Byrne every time she appears on screen, and in Tow, she reminds you that she should have been recognized for her talents years ago. Her strong performance propels a maddeningly frustrating real-life look at how government systems are designed to hurt more than help, and how pride doesn’t improve the circumstances of those who it aggrieves. But amongst all the aggravating red tape, ego, and on-the-nose messaging, stubbornly hopeful individuals shine a light through the bullshit. Tow is exasperating, honest, vexing, and inspiring, and it’s a great watch.
KATIE
Stephanie Laing's directorial debut Tow features a moving performance from the criminally underrated Rose Byrne, but I found it inconsistent overall. Byrne, playing Amanda Ogle, presents an authentic representation of someone who is victim to the injustices perpetuated by the justice system. The film engages empathetically with Amanda’s struggle and pride, without being condescending or exploitative. However, it struggles to settle on a tone, and sometimes transitions uncomfortably from hard-hitting realism to more light-hearted comedy. Despite its tonal inconsistencies, Tow tells an incredible true story driven by Byrne’s strong performance.
