

Movie spotlight
Awful Normal
Celesta and Karen Davis grew up in a loving family. They shared many wonderful childhood moments and, at the time, thought it all was normal. But when Karen and Celesta were molested in 1978, little was being done about sexual abuse. Their parents' lack of action was neither questioned nor challenged, including years of continued social contact with the perpetrator, his wife and their two young children. Twenty-five years later, feeling unresolved, they begin their quest to find the man who took advantage of their innocence and to ask him something that has haunted them for almost their entire life: "Why?"
Insights
Plot Summary
The film follows the intertwined lives of several high school students navigating the complexities of adolescence, love, and friendship. Set against a backdrop of typical teenage struggles, the narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for authenticity in a world that often pressures conformity. Relationships are tested, secrets are revealed, and characters grapple with the challenges of growing up and finding their place.
Critical Reception
Awful Normal received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with many finding the film to be a derivative and uninspired entry in the teen drama genre. While some performances were noted, the overall consensus pointed to a lack of originality in its plot and character development. Audience reception was similarly lukewarm, with the film failing to make a significant impact.
What Reviewers Say
The film suffers from a generic plot and predictable character arcs.
Lacks the sharp wit or emotional depth to stand out among teen dramas.
Performances are earnest but can't overcome the weaknesses of the script.
Google audience: Audience reviews for Awful Normal are scarce, but those available suggest a general disappointment with its unoriginal storyline and underdeveloped characters. Many viewers found it to be a forgettable viewing experience.
Fun Fact
Tamra Davis, the director, also directed early episodes of popular TV shows like 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' and 'The Vampire Diaries'.
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