Mouse

(dirs. Kelly O'Sullivan & Alex Thompson)

By: Nick Zednik

Mouse is a tender coming-of-age drama that quickly morphs into the messy realities of growing up. Set in 2002, the film follows Minnie, an introverted high school student whose world shifts when her friendship with charismatic best friend Callie is upended. Struggling to find her footing, Minnie develops an unexpected bond with Callie’s mother, Helen, offering her a sense of belonging amid the uncertainty of adolescence.

Anchored by a wonderful ensemble led by standout performer Katherine Mallen Kupferer (Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.), the film captures the vulnerability of a young woman searching for their identity. Sophie Okonedo (Hotel Rwanda) brings warmth and complexity to Helen, while Chloe Coleman (My Spy, Avatar: The Way of Water) conveys a magnetic energy that makes Callie such an influential presence throughout the narrative. Together, the performances lend authenticity to a story exploring grief, loneliness, friendship, and the complicated ways people seek connection when life refuses to guide someone down easy roads.

Co-directors Kelly O’Sullivan and Alex Thompson (Ghostlight) favor naturalistic storytelling over melodrama, allowing emotions to emerge through small gestures and everyday interactions. The early-2000s setting adds a nostalgic touch without overwhelming the central relationships. However, the understated approach occasionally leaves dramatic moments underdeveloped, while the leisurely pacing allows the momentum of the narrative to stop and go. Nevertheless, Mouse succeeds as a perceptive, compassionate portrait of adolescence, reminding audiences that finding ourselves sometimes begins with losing the people who leave lasting impacts.

Nick’s Pick: 7/10 Mouse is a heartfelt coming-of-age drama whose standout performances and poignant exploration of friendship, loneliness, and self-discovery allows for an emotionally rewarding experience.

Mouse is included in Movie Archer’s coverage of the 62nd Chicago International Film Festival