Ella McCay – A Reminder Of What Comedy Used To Be. 

By:Dominic La-Viola

Ella McCay is a modern film that reminds us of what movies used to be like. Kindling with nostalgia, witty dialogue, and the perfect blend of humor and heartbreak. Funny, witty, blissful, typical, but not predictable. 

I remember first seeing the trailer for the film and seeing it was from writer/director James L. Brooks. Which might not mean anything to some today, but at one point in time, he was one of a household name, in the sense his movies were always big hits. Both critically and financially.

With that being said, I had an idea of what to expect, very similar to when going into a Richard Curtis film. There is usually always a similar tone and style with their films that never change. 

Offering something familiar, all while being new and enjoyable. For the style and tone that Brooks uses is similar to a library of films. 

The fact that the film is set in 2008, instead of modern times, offers a unique perspective. Given the fact that the main character is working in politics. That was probably for the best, considering how divided everyone is based on politics in the current era.

Our narrator even mentions this in the opening of the film. That as bad as 2008 was, one of the worst economic times in our country’s history since the Great Depression. It was still a simpler time, because we all got along.

Feeling almost like the film’s undertone is striving to bring people together, not as blunt and forward as Richard Curtis’s “Love Actually”. More of an undertone, offering a satire of the inner workings of politics. 

All the while, the forefront is about family drama, centered around Ella McCay. The main character, who carries the film through her charm and inspiration.

As much as this is a popcorn flick. We are attached and invested, not because the storyline or story arc is particularly important or interesting. But simply because of our title character, played by Emma Mackey. Most famously known for her breakout role in Netflix’s “Sex Education”, the British TV series. 

She’s not necessarily relatable, for she lacks basic people skills because she is clearly always the smartest person in the room. Yet, she is never entitled or snotty about it. Her charm comes from her being overly sensitive and carrying. Her unrealistic selflessness makes her lovable and the perfect character until it doesn’t. 

To top it off, there are amazing supporting characters and roles, played by Jamie Lee Curtis and Woody Harrison. Whose performances are top tier, truly bringing in the laughs. Embodying these classic performances of being exaggerated versions of family members and people we know. Grounding the film, while adding to that nostalgic tone.

While there are some parts of the storyline that are flimsy and things that are clearly unrealistic, and are clearly heavier on the satirical tone. Those moments are easily forgotten and overlooked. 

Overall, the film is far from great, original, or challenging boundaries. Yet, it works for what it is. A throwback to a style of drama/comedies we don’t really see anymore. I do have to give credit where credit is due. The comedy, while not as ongoing as one might hope. There was more than a handful of genuinely good comedic moments.

Overall Rating: 3.5/5 stars.