Maggie Gyllenhall’s confident directorial debut, The Lost Daughter, is an audacious film that does not shy away from tackling complex themes of mothers and daughters, identity, and desires versus fulfilment.
Films from actors-turned-directors can often feel like vanity projects, with a misplaced belief that being a good actor translates to being a good director. Gyllenhaal doesn’t face this issue, as there is nothing vain about this film, and it is evident that she is as skilled at directing as acting.
There’s an underlying discomfort throughout The Lost Daughter, first from withholding information and then from its reveal.
The film is a dual narrative centred on Leda (Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley), an English professor, on holiday in the present and delving into her younger self via flashbacks. The deployment of these flashbacks and the connection between Colman’s and Buckley’s performances is one of the best aspects of this film.
Colman is simply perfect in this film, and it’s a testament to her as an actor how willing she is to play such an unlikable character without ever resorting to making her a caricature or a one-note villain. The ugliness of this character is fully realised whilst always having a sense of understanding for her as a person. Jessie Buckley compliments this and stands up well in comparison to Colman.
An inherent irony is at play, with the film carrying constant discomfort and edginess amidst its Greek holiday setting. Through flashbacks we learn of the sacrifices and guilt Leda has to her time as a younger mother. This is contrasted with the present where Leda becomes intertwined with Nina (Dakota Johnson) and her daughter.
The film carries this atmospheric and uneasy tone throughout. From the start we sense this, as Leda tries to affect the visage of enjoying her getaway. As the film unfolds, Gyllenhaal tests Colman’s inherent likability as an actor and, in turn, the audience’s sympathy for Leda.
It’s hard to say more without revealing everything about the film. Part of the experience is being consistently surprised by the turns the film takes.
The Lost Daughter can leave audiences undecided on what to take away. The film won’t be for everyone, but will provoke strong reactions and discussion, which makes it a worthwhile watch. Regardless of what you think of the film, you will walk away with strong opinions.
