Showing Up - A Movie Review

You’re not the only one with a deadline.

Showing Up in a 2023 film. Facing the fast approach of her art show, Lizzy is faced with multiple dramas with her family, friends, and work life. One day, an unexpected occurrence happens that changes her outlook.

Ever since I watched the trailer for Showing Up, I wanted to see this film based on its premise surrounding art. As an art lover myself, art is used in several formations in Showing Up. The film is simplistic of everyday life and illustrates passions.

This is a very different role I have seen Michelle Williams in. She is almost unrecognizable. I want to see Williams in more of these roles where she is subtle and not shouting her emotions. Lizzy has a passion for art which helps her through most of her dilemmas. Williams embodies the character with vulnerability and quiet struggles.

Another reason why I wanted to watch Showing Up is for Hong Chau. If you’ve seen Chau in The Menu or The Whale, she is one talented actress. Here she plays Jo, a woman who also likes to play around with creativity.

Lizzy and Jo are not the closest but they’re brought together by an interesting circumstance. I didn’t expect the subplot of the women tending to the injured bird. The situation happened to the director when filming ended. Birds are symbolic.

The characters are always so distant from each other and put off conversation because their artwork comes first. More credits include Maryann Plunkett, Andre Benjamin, Lauren Lakis, John Magero, and Amanda Plummer.

Showing Up distinguishes several forms of art from drawing, pottery, and movies. The art is beautiful. The art pieces that Lizzy creates were handmade by artist Cynthia Lahti who also trained Michelle Williams on how to sculpt.

What does art mean to people? I have always loved to draw. Drawing has helped me clear my mind when I am over-stressed. There’s always something you can make out of art. No matter the obstacles or one's creative juices, we can make it work. Art is its own thing.

We are all creative in our own ways. Art enthusiasts will understand. Most importantly, when you enjoy something you keep doing it. Or you keep showing up.

Showing Up has a slow pace. The film lost my attention a bit. Most of the time we’re watching people think. Not a lot happens but the characters' dilemmas; an injured bird, lack of communication, and deadlines are at the forefront. Character’s actions are repeated a lot like creating art.

While the plot may seem sparse, it is in the quiet moments and the unspoken gestures that the true essence of the film is revealed. Nobody is saying what they want to say. The mood is downbeat and yet it’s a simple drama that leaves you with a lot to decipher.

This film is more relatable than you think. In Kelly Reinhardt’s direction, she emphasizes how you have to listen to what isn’t being said. She paid special attention to the camera angles so she could keep every character in the frame and highlight the use of space and emptiness. There’s motivation in every angle.

The music tracks were also pleasant contributing to the quiet atmosphere. Reinhardt chose to film in Oregon as it’s one of her favorite settings.

It’s not everyone’s cup of tea but I recommend that you check out Showing Up. This movie has not earned its rightful recognition, sliding under viewers' noses. Art enthusiasts need to put this film on their list.