After directing several short films and trying her luck as an actress for a few years, Annabelle Attanasio makes her debut as a filmmaker with this highly convincing coming-of-age, which skillfully addresses classic themes of American independent cinema. The plot revolves around eighteen-years-old Mickey, perfectly embodied by Camila Morrone, who dazzled us with her natural charisma during last year’s edition of Americana in Augustine Frizzell’s comedy Never Goin’ Back. This is her fourth film and her strong performance certainly makes her an actress to keep an eye on.
 
In Mickey and the Bear, Attanasio captures the harsh reality for residents of Anaconda, Montana, analyzing the idyllic landscapes of rural America and showing the squalor laying underneath its postcard-material surface. We witness the relationship between an excessive war-veteran (James Badge Dale) dealing with PTSD and his daughter Mickey, a confused young woman who has to deal with matters and responsibilities far beyond her age. While carrying this burden on her shoulders, Mickey still has to decide what to do about her dreams, her hopes, and her relationships. Surrounded by a solid cast, Morrone gives life to the strong-willed and unconventional Mickey with her tremendous talent and strong on-screen presence.

 
2019: SXSW
2019: Deauvile Film Festival