To Leslie

Riseborough was rightfully nominated for an Oscar for her performance in this film. Special mention must also go to Marc Maron and Owen Teague who also turn in brilliant performances. The film doesn't grab the heart as much as it should but it's still a worthy watch.

"To Leslie" is the kind of addiction drama you've probably seen dozens of times before. There's really nothing special about it. The film is also emotionally manipulative and predictable throughout. Andrea Riseborough is quite good in the lead role as a washed-up alcoholic. However, I'm perplexed by the amount of praise she's received for her performance. The role is pretty thankful, because the main requirement is to play extremely gesticulating and intense. In addition, she can scream around a lot and go off in a drunken stupor. Subtlety is hardly required, which is certainly also due to the not very creative script. Still, Riseborough is good. But I wouldn't say she's much better than, say, Mila Kunis in "Four Good Days" a few years ago or many others in similar roles. I can't exactly give this film a glowing recommendation. You can definitely watch it for Riseborough's performance, but you shouldn't expect too much.