Mistress America (2015) Movie Review: A Witty and Eccentric Comedy from Noah Baumbach
Mistress America (2015) is a sharp, funny, and insightful comedy directed by Noah Baumbach, known for his keen observations on modern relationships and social dynamics. Co-written by Baumbach and Greta Gerwig, who also stars in the film, Mistress America is a follow-up to their successful collaboration on Frances Ha (2012). The film explores themes of ambition, identity, and the complexities of female friendship through a humorous and often satirical lens.
In this review, we’ll dive into the plot, performances, themes, and where to stream Mistress America online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Tale of Ambition and Identity
Mistress America centers around Tracy Fishko (played by Lola Kirke), a college freshman struggling to find her place in New York City. Feeling isolated and struggling with writer’s block, Tracy is introduced to her soon-to-be stepsister, Brooke Cardinas (played by Greta Gerwig), a vibrant and charismatic entrepreneur with big dreams.
Brooke is a whirlwind of energy and ambition, working on a variety of projects that range from a restaurant venture to a unique fitness class. Her enthusiasm and confidence contrast sharply with Tracy’s more reserved and introspective nature. Despite their differences, Tracy is captivated by Brooke’s larger-than-life personality and sees her as a source of inspiration and excitement.
The film follows the relationship between Tracy and Brooke as they embark on various escapades around the city, including a complicated attempt to save Brooke’s faltering restaurant venture. The narrative explores the impact of Brooke’s influence on Tracy’s personal growth, as well as the tensions and dynamics that arise from their contrasting personalities and aspirations.
Key Performances: Greta Gerwig and Lola Kirke Shine
Greta Gerwig delivers a standout performance as Brooke Cardinas, a character who embodies the charming yet deeply flawed nature of ambitious young adults. Gerwig’s portrayal is a blend of charisma, wit, and vulnerability, capturing Brooke’s complex personality with both humor and depth. Her performance is central to the film’s success, providing both the comedic energy and emotional core that drives the story.
Lola Kirke also shines as Tracy Fishko, portraying a character who evolves from an insecure and uncertain college student into a more self-assured individual. Kirke’s performance captures Tracy’s growing admiration for Brooke, as well as the personal struggles and realizations that come with navigating adulthood. Her portrayal is both nuanced and relatable, offering a grounded counterpoint to Gerwig’s exuberant Brooke.
The film’s supporting cast includes Matthew Shear and Catlin Fitzgerald as other key characters in Brooke’s social circle. Their interactions with the central characters add layers of complexity and humor to the narrative, further enriching the film’s exploration of social dynamics and personal ambition.
Themes: Ambition, Identity, and the Search for Meaning
Mistress America delves into several themes, including ambition, identity, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Brooke’s character embodies the pursuit of success and the struggle to maintain a sense of self amidst the pressures of achieving one’s goals. Her multifaceted ambitions highlight the complexities of modern entrepreneurship and personal fulfillment.
Tracy’s journey reflects the challenges of self-discovery and the desire to find one’s voice in the midst of external influences. Her evolving relationship with Brooke serves as a catalyst for her personal growth, illustrating the impact that influential figures can have on one’s sense of identity and direction.
The film also explores the dynamics of female friendship, focusing on the tensions and connections between Tracy and Brooke. Their relationship is marked by admiration, jealousy, and a deep, albeit complicated, bond that underscores the complexities of navigating personal and professional aspirations.
Humor and Style: A Modern Comedy with a Classic Touch
Noah Baumbach’s direction brings a distinctive comedic style to Mistress America, combining sharp dialogue, satirical elements, and a keen sense of character-driven humor. The film’s humor often arises from the characters’ interactions and the absurdities of their situations, offering a blend of witty repartee and situational comedy.
The film’s visual style and pacing are reminiscent of classic screwball comedies, with rapid-fire dialogue and a focus on character-driven scenarios. Baumbach’s direction ensures that the film maintains a brisk and engaging pace, keeping the audience entertained while exploring deeper themes.
The screenplay, co-written by Baumbach and Gerwig, is filled with clever observations and insightful commentary on contemporary life. The dialogue is sharp and often reflects the characters’ inner conflicts and ambitions, adding depth to the film’s comedic elements.
Reception and Legacy: A Well-Received Comedy
Mistress America received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, praising the film’s humor, performances, and Baumbach’s direction. The film holds an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many reviewers highlighting Gerwig and Kirke’s performances as key strengths. The film’s exploration of ambition and identity resonated with viewers, making it a notable entry in Baumbach’s filmography.
The film’s success also solidified Greta Gerwig’s reputation as a talented writer and actress, further establishing her collaboration with Baumbach as a dynamic and influential creative partnership.
Where to Watch Mistress America (2015) Online in America
For those interested in watching Mistress America, several streaming platforms and rental services in the U.S. offer the film.
1. Amazon Prime Video
Mistress America is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically start at $3.99 for HD, and the purchase price is around $12.99.
2. Apple TV
Apple TV offers Mistress America for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $12.99 in HD. It’s a convenient option for those using Apple devices.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
You can rent or purchase Mistress America on Google Play Movies & TV, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices at $12.99. The film is available in HD.
4. Vudu
Vudu provides Mistress America for rental at $3.99 or purchase at $12.99. The film is available in HD and can be streamed on various devices.
5. Hulu
At the time of writing, Mistress America is available to stream on Hulu with a subscription. This is a great option for Hulu subscribers looking for a new comedy to enjoy.
Conclusion: A Witty and Thought-Provoking Comedy
Mistress America (2015) is a witty and engaging comedy that offers a clever exploration of ambition, identity, and the complexities of female friendship. With standout performances from Greta Gerwig and Lola Kirke, and a sharp script co-written by Baumbach and Gerwig, the film delivers both humor and insight in equal measure.
Available on several streaming platforms and rental services, Mistress America is a must-watch for fans of modern comedy and those interested in a thoughtful take on contemporary life. Its blend of humor, character-driven storytelling, and insightful commentary ensures that it remains a relevant and entertaining film for a wide audience.
