Wrestling with Alligators

About This Movie

Wrestling with Alligators is a slice of life drama set in 1959, focusing on Maddy Hawkins, a runaway searching for belonging. The film captures the raw emotions of its characters, particularly through the dynamics in the woman-only rooming house. Maddy’s interactions with the eccentric Lulu and others create a tapestry of hope and hardship. The pacing has a meandering quality, reflecting Maddy's aimlessness but also building tension in her quest for family. Notably, the performances are grounded, adding depth to the themes of love, loss, and the struggle for connection. The cinematography, though modest, helps evoke the atmosphere of a simpler yet challenging time, making it feel quite distinctive in its portrayal of female camaraderie and resilience.

Character-driven narrativeExplores themes of belongingUnique portrayal of female friendship