OSCAR NOMINATED FILM | 'I, Tonya'
Ever since the trailers were released for this film, we knew 'I, Tonya' would be brilliant - and boy, did it deliver. 'I, Tonya' tells the story of competitive ice skater Tonya Harding who rises amongst the ranks at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. But when her ex-husband intervenes, her future in the activity is thrown into doubt.
'I, Tonya' allows viewers to identify with Harding during a tumultuous time in her life - suffering from both physical and psychological abuse at the hands of her rage-filled husband and foul-mouthed mother. There were initially questions as to why this film was developed several years after the events took place, but as time has passed, we can now look back at what happened thoughtfully.
'I, Tonya' is different from the standard biopics we are used to - avoiding the boring and formulaic, opting for comedic depth instead. Personal interviews are dotted throughout the film in a mockumentary style, giving it the extra edge required in that first solid hour, truly delving into Tonya’s world, and introducing the audience to the people involved in her life - complete with off-the-cuff humour.
The film is lead by true emotional depth and balanced with humour without losing sight of its more tragic moments. Though it's a shame the humour didn’t extend consistently throughout the film, the second half is still as entertaining as the first, with cleverly foul dialogue to boot.
The strength of leading lady, Australian Margot Robbie and Alison Janney (who nearly steals the show as Robbie's mother) ensures we're invested in the film and its characters from start to finish. And with a support cast including Sebastian Stan, Paul Walter Hauser, and Bobby Carnavale, it's little wonder we're enthralled. Robbie, possibly Janney even more so, deserve every ounce of recognition they can get for this film. 'I, Tonya' gives a podium to each of the actors to perform in their style. Their dedication during production - especially that of Robbie who endured months of figure skating lessons, is quite sensational and makes for an authentic viewing experience. Upon watching this film, Harding appears a victim of circumstance. She is portrayed in the film as extremely talented in her own right, but unduly limited in factors regarding image and public persona. 'I, Tonya' is a must-see this Oscars season. Out on March 15 in Australia, and February 23 in the UK.
