Watch Normal

Normal is a 2007 Canadian drama film directed by Carl Bessai, starring Carrie-Anne Moss, Kevin Zegers, Callum Keith Rennie, and Andrew Airlie. The film explores the concept of what it means to be 'normal' and how societal norms often suppress individuals' right to express themselves freely. The movie revolves around the lives of three individuals living in a small town in British Columbia, Canada. Roy (Kevin Zegers), an emotionally stunted teenager, is struggling to cope with the realization that he is gay. He feels trapped in a community that refuses to acknowledge or accept his sexuality, and he finds solace in writing poetry as a means of self-expression. On the other hand, his mother, Irma Applewood (Carrie-Anne Moss), is also struggling to come to terms with her reality. She is married to Roy's father, who is a devoted husband and father but is hiding a secret from his family. When Irma discovers that her husband has been cross-dressing for years, her world topples. She is faced with a difficult decision: stay in the marriage or leave. The third key character in the film is Roy's uncle, Dave (Callum Keith Rennie). Dave is an ex-convict, who is trying to get his life back on track. He has just been released from jail, and his main concern is reconnecting with his son, who is also living in the town. However, he is met with hostility and disdain from the people in the town because of his criminal past. The film portrays the struggles of each of these characters, and how they come to terms with their identities. Irma's journey of self-discovery is particularly illuminating, as she learns to embrace vulnerability and honesty, even if it means making tough choices. She becomes a symbol of strength and resilience for both Roy and Dave, who are struggling with their own issues. Normal is a poignant and powerful film that highlights the importance of accepting oneself and others, regardless of societal norms. It touches on issues such as homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination, and shows how these attitudes can have a devastating impact on individuals and their families. The performances of the three leads are exceptional, with Carrie-Anne Moss delivering a nuanced portrayal of a woman grappling with her sense of self. Kevin Zegers delivers an emotionally charged performance that captures the fear and isolation of a young gay man. Callum Keith Rennie brings a sense of vulnerability and authenticity to his portrayal of a man trying to rebuild his life after a dark past. The cinematography and direction by Carl Bessai are also noteworthy, with the film capturing the bleakness and beauty of the town, and the contrasts between the characters' inner and outer worlds. Overall, Normal is a thought-provoking film that encourages viewers to reflect on societal norms and their impact on individuals. It is a testament to the power of self-discovery and acceptance, and the human resilience to overcome challenges.