Divorce is one of those subjects that provides great drama for films. Some divorces can be quite amicable while others can be very brutal. This one is certainly the later. Most films usually take the perspective of the protagonists in a divorce but this film lets you see what happens from the child's perspective. I'm sure that not all divorces are like this but it makes you wonder whether couples actually think about anyone other than themselves in these situations. The emotional struggle that poor little Maisie goes through is very tragic. This 6 year-old girl is used as a bargaining chip in this selfish couples relationship. The way they treat her is I think should be considered child abuse. They both claim to love her and on some level they probably do but you cannot tell that from the way they behave. Her parents do not hurt her physically but I'm sure they are leaving some very strong emotional scars. Further proof that there are some people out there who should be parents. But themost tragic thing is that the two people in the film that should be Maisie's parents will now doubt never get to have that honour because her real parents would fight it.
At the centre of this film is an amazing performance by the young Onata Aprile as Maisie. She is simply stunning in this role and manages to carry the film despite being so young. Something that many adult actors cannot pull off. Her performance feels so incredibly real that you forget she is an actress and you just feel you are watching a real child. Her adult co-stars are quite good as well. Steve Coogan is excellent in a more dramatic role. Showing he can be more than just a crazy character. Julianne Moore is her usual brilliant self. The way she can act selfish but also try and be loving at the same time is amazing. Alexander Skarsgard is also excellent in a role that shows his more softer side. Joanna Vanderham plays another character who becomes almost like a pawn in this couples game. Joanna is very good in the role.
An emotional drama that looks at the harshness of a couple's divorce. Well worth seeing for one of the best performances by a child you will probably see this year.
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