No Right Way (2023)

Review Team

4/5

No Right Way, directed by Chelsea Bo, is a poignant exploration of familial bonds and the scars of childhood. The film centres around Georgie, a spirited 13-year-old whose life is thrown into disarray when she is placed in the care of her half-sister Harper. What unfolds is a raw and emotionally cha ... Show more >> No Right Way, directed by Chelsea Bo, is a poignant exploration of familial bonds and the scars of childhood. The film centres around Georgie, a spirited 13-year-old whose life is thrown into disarray when she is placed in the care of her half-sister Harper. What unfolds is a raw and emotionally charged narrative that examines their complex relationship, marred by shared trauma and differing perspectives on healing. The performances are commendable, particularly from the young actress portraying Georgie, who brings a vibrant yet vulnerable energy to the role. Harper, played with depth and nuance, embodies the struggles of a guardian trying to reshape a fractured life while grappling with her own past. The film's pacing allows for reflective moments that resonate, although some viewers may find it slower in parts. The cinematography captures the contrasting settings of Las Vegas and Los Angeles beautifully, enhancing the narrative's emotional weight. Overall, No Right Way is a thought-provoking film that invites viewers to reflect on the intricacies of family and the paths to healing. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

No Right Way is a heartfelt film that tries to tackle the complexities of sisterhood and childhood trauma, but it doesn’t always hit the mark. The story follows Georgie, who is uprooted from her life in Las Vegas and thrown into the care of her half-sister Harper in LA. While the premise is intrigui ... Show more >> No Right Way is a heartfelt film that tries to tackle the complexities of sisterhood and childhood trauma, but it doesn’t always hit the mark. The story follows Georgie, who is uprooted from her life in Las Vegas and thrown into the care of her half-sister Harper in LA. While the premise is intriguing, the execution sometimes feels uneven. Georgie is a lively character, but at times her rebellious nature feels a bit clichéd. Harper's attempts to guide her are well-intentioned but often come off as overbearing, which can be frustrating. The film has its moments of poignancy, especially when it dives into their shared past, but there are stretches where it drags, making it hard to stay engaged. The performances are solid, and the emotional scenes do resonate, but I wished for a bit more depth in character development. Overall, No Right Way is an earnest film that shines a light on important themes, but it may leave some viewers wanting more in terms of pacing and character arcs. Show less