In New York City, a young girl is caught in the middle of her parents' bitter custody battle.
This is a film that deals in subtle details, and its value lies in the way the filmmakers draw out small moments of surprise or truth from the familiar scenario.
What Maisie Knew squares its emotions believably, provoking upset and anger at its scenes of collateral damage, but also inspiring respect for the resilience of youth.
The young Aprile is a standout in a moving, hard-hitting and surprising adaptation of the Henry James novel.
An intimate story of repeated betrayal, five terrific performances get this movie over some rocky terrain, including a pat resolution. It’s hard to begrudge Maisie her shot at happiness, especially when you consider the size of those therapy bills.
A sensitive and keenly observed modern-day re-telling of Henry James's 1897 novel.
Theirs is a rather sentimental, precious tale, and the important sense of Maisie growing up and learning about the world and its failings doesn't come through.
Quality cinema.
What follows is an unconventional romantic drama, one that explores in nuanced fashion the perpetually messy machinations of love and family.
This accomplished film is closer to Kramer vs Kramer or middle-period Woody Allen than it is to James. But that is no bad place to be.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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