Helen

A young woman grapples with the complex relationship she shares with her mother, an artist struggling with mental health. As she navigates her own emerging identity and romantic life, she must confront the legacy of her mother's past and her own future. The film explores themes of family, art, and the enduring impact of mental illness.

Helen received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who often praised its emotional depth and strong performances, particularly from its lead actress. Some reviewers found the pacing to be slow at times, and certain plot elements were considered predictable. Audiences generally connected with the film's portrayal of a difficult mother-daughter dynamic.

• Praised for its poignant exploration of familial bonds and mental health struggles.
• Lalaine delivers a standout performance as the titular character.
• Some critics noted a lack of narrative momentum in the film's second act.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently highlight the film's emotional resonance and relatable portrayal of complex family relationships. Many viewers appreciated the sensitive handling of mental health themes and the compelling performances. Some found the ending to be somewhat understated.

Nominated for Best Actress at the Sundance Film Festival for Lalaine's performance.

The film's artistic aesthetic was heavily influenced by the work of Yayoi Kusama, with the set design incorporating elements of her signature polka dots and immersive installations.