Tully (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Jason Reitman and written by Diablo Cody, Tully (2018) is a poignant and thought-provoking dramedy that delves into the challenges of motherhood and personal identity. Starring Charlize Theron as Marlo, a sleep-deprived mother of three, and Mackenzie Davis as Tully, the night nurse hired to help her, the film explores themes of mental health, family dynamics, and self-discovery.
In this review, we’ll analyze the film’s plot, themes, and performances, and provide information on where you can watch Tully online, particularly for U.S. viewers.
Plot Overview
Tully follows Marlo (Charlize Theron), a mother of three who is struggling with the demands of parenting, particularly after the recent birth of her third child. Marlo’s life is a whirlwind of sleepless nights, household chores, and strained relationships with her husband Drew (Ron Livingston) and her children.
Feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, Marlo reluctantly agrees to hire a night nurse named Tully (Mackenzie Davis), who is supposed to help with the baby and provide Marlo with some much-needed rest. Tully’s arrival brings a new energy to Marlo’s life, and the two women form a close bond as Tully assists with nighttime feedings and helps Marlo regain some semblance of normalcy.
As Marlo and Tully’s relationship deepens, Marlo begins to confront her own feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction. The film explores Marlo’s journey towards self-acceptance and the impact of Tully’s presence on her life, leading to unexpected revelations and emotional growth.
Themes
Tully addresses several significant themes related to motherhood and personal identity.
1. Motherhood and Mental Health
The film provides a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges of motherhood, particularly the emotional and physical toll it can take on a woman. Marlo’s struggles with postpartum fatigue, anxiety, and feelings of isolation are depicted with sensitivity and realism. Tully sheds light on the often-unspoken difficulties faced by mothers and the importance of seeking help and support.
2. Self-Identity and Personal Fulfillment
Marlo’s journey in Tully is also a quest for self-discovery and personal fulfillment. As she grapples with her role as a mother and her own sense of identity, the film explores the conflict between societal expectations and individual desires. Marlo’s relationship with Tully serves as a catalyst for her to confront her own needs and aspirations.
3. Support Systems and Relationships
The film highlights the importance of support systems and relationships in coping with life’s challenges. Tully’s role in Marlo’s life represents a form of support that helps Marlo navigate her difficulties. The film also examines the dynamics of Marlo’s relationships with her family, showing how understanding and compassion can impact personal well-being.
Performances and Characters
The performances in Tully are central to the film’s impact and effectiveness.
1. Charlize Theron as Marlo
Charlize Theron delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Marlo. Her portrayal captures the complexity of Marlo’s emotions, from exhaustion and frustration to vulnerability and hope. Theron’s ability to convey the physical and emotional challenges of motherhood adds depth to the character and anchors the film’s narrative.
2. Mackenzie Davis as Tully
Mackenzie Davis plays Tully with a combination of charm, empathy, and energy. Her performance brings warmth and positivity to the role, providing a counterbalance to Marlo’s struggles. Tully’s character serves as both a practical helper and an emotional confidant, and Davis’s portrayal enhances the film’s exploration of their evolving relationship.
3. Ron Livingston as Drew
Ron Livingston portrays Drew, Marlo’s husband, with understated sincerity. Drew’s character represents the challenges of balancing personal and family responsibilities and highlights the complexities of marital relationships. Livingston’s performance adds realism to the depiction of a couple navigating the demands of parenthood.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Jason Reitman’s direction in Tully is marked by its sensitive and realistic approach to storytelling. The film combines humor with poignant moments, creating a balance that captures the highs and lows of motherhood. Reitman’s direction ensures that the film remains engaging and relatable, while also providing depth and insight into Marlo’s experience.
The film’s visual style includes a warm and intimate color palette, reflecting the personal and emotional nature of the story. The cinematography focuses on close-ups and detailed shots, emphasizing the characters’ emotions and experiences. The use of naturalistic lighting and practical settings enhances the film’s authenticity and relatability.
The score, composed by Rob Simonsen, complements the film’s tone with its subtle and evocative music. The soundtrack underscores the emotional and dramatic moments, adding to the overall atmosphere of the film.
Where to Watch Tully Online
For U.S. viewers interested in watching Tully, there are several popular streaming platforms and rental services where the film is available.
1. Amazon Prime Video
Tully is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices generally start at $3.99, and purchasing the film usually costs between $9.99 and $14.99, depending on the resolution (SD or HD).
2. Apple TV
Apple TV offers Tully for rent or purchase. Rentals are typically priced at $3.99, with purchasing options around $12.99. Apple TV provides a convenient platform for streaming on iOS devices and Apple TVs.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
Android users can rent or purchase Tully on Google Play Movies & TV. Rentals usually cost $3.99, with purchase options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
4. Vudu
Vudu provides Tully for rent at $3.99 and purchase starting at $9.99. Vudu often offers promotional discounts, making it a flexible option for renting or buying the film.
5. Hulu
Hulu may offer Tully as part of its streaming library, depending on current licensing agreements. Check Hulu’s catalog for availability.
Conclusion
Tully (2018) is a thoughtful and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of motherhood and personal identity. Charlize Theron’s compelling performance, combined with Jason Reitman’s sensitive direction and Diablo Cody’s sharp writing, makes Tully a standout entry in the dramedy genre. The film’s portrayal of self-acceptance, support systems, and the challenges of parenting offers both entertainment and insight.
For U.S. audiences, Tully is available for streaming or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and possibly Hulu. Whether you’re interested in a film that combines humor with heartfelt storytelling or exploring themes of personal growth, Tully provides a captivating and relatable experience.
