Premiering at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival, the film “Am I Okay?” now makes its highly anticipated debut on Max this June 6. Directed by Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne, and starring Dakota Johnson and Sonoya Mizuno, this feature is a heartfelt exploration of friendship, love, and the complexities of self-discovery.
“Am I Okay?” centers around Lucy (Johnson) and Jane (Mizuno), best friends who believe they know each other inside out. Their bond is tested when Jane announces her move to London for a new job, prompting Lucy to reveal a secret she has harbored for years—her attraction to women. This revelation upends their friendship, sending both women on a tumultuous journey of introspection and growth.
As Jane attempts to support Lucy through her late-in-life realization, the dynamics of their relationship shift, leading to moments of chaos, humor, and heartfelt connection. The film deftly portrays the fragile balance of maintaining personal identity while navigating significant life changes.
For Notaro and Allynne, “Am I Okay?” marks their directorial feature debut. Their approach to the film is described as a nuanced and charming love story that delves into the intimate moments of self-discovery and personal awakening. In their director’s statement, they express a deep personal connection to the themes of the movie: “When we read the script for ‘Am I Okay?’ we immediately felt aligned on a personal level with the themes of love, women, friendship, and sexuality. We were interested in exploring the moments, the space between the notes, and the complexities of self-discovery and personal awakening.”
The film stands out for its relatable portrayal of friendship and personal struggle. Lauren Pomerantz, the writer and producer of “Am I Okay?”, imbues the narrative with authenticity drawn from her own life experiences. Pomerantz came out as gay in her thirties, and her personal journey is mirrored in Lucy’s character. “AM I OK? explores internal and external struggles with finding one’s authentic self and navigating relationships in every form,” Pomerantz shares. This connection between the writer’s life and the film’s storyline enriches the narrative, making it deeply resonant for audiences.
Catch AM I OKAY on Max now.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
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