Milkwater

"Milkwater" is an engaging, heartwarming, and often thought-provoking independent film from 2020. Directed by Morgan Ingari, the film stars Molly Bernard, Michael Judson Berry, and Patrick Breen, and skillfully explores themes of personal identity, self-discovery, and the complex dynamics of relationships.

The movie mainly revolves around the character of Milo, who is masterfully portrayed by Molly Bernard, popularly known for her stellar work in "Younger". Milo is a charming yet somewhat aimless 20-something living in New York City. She's got an exciting social life and enjoys her eclectic band of friends and her job, yet she's also chasing a sense of purpose and stability that seems to elude her. She grapples with the looming expectations of her age, and the pressures of time, as most of her friends are moving on, forming families, pursuing careers, and making moves that are traditionally associated with adulthood.

The story takes a gripping turn when Milo bumps into an older man, Roger, played brilliantly by Patrick Breen, at a local bar one evening. Roger is an endearing gay man, who's always wanted to father a child but has been deterred by certain circumstances. They strike a deep conversation that spotlights Roger's unfulfilled dream of becoming a father.

Driven by a desire to find meaning and to help Roger, Milo offers to become his surrogate. However, this impulsive decision soon sets her on a whirlwind journey filled with self-exploration, difficult conversations, and tangled emotions. In her quest to give Roger a family, Milo inadvertently falls into a complicated relationship that tests the realms of friendship, family, and love, causing her to re-evaluate her understanding of these ideas.

Michael Judson Berry plays Milo's best friend, George. In stark contrast to the impulsive Milo, George is a more cautious character who's skeptical about Milo's decision, yet he supports her unconditionally. He's a grounding presence in Milo's chaotic world, and their dynamic provides a strong emotional anchor for the film.

"Milkwater" isn't just about surrogacy; it transcends to profound depths as it analyzes the nitty-gritty of actually raising a child. It delves into contemporary friendship circles, surrogate parenthood, the social constructs surrounding it, the significance of family ties, and the roller-coaster ride of self-determination. This feature film beautifully encapsulates the various versions of family structure in modern society.

Through her character, Bernard takes the movie audience on a journey of a lifetime. Her portrayal of Milo’s quirks and insecurities, along with her unique charm and spirit, makes the character relatable and empathetic. What stands out is her strong performance, which is both humorous and heart-rending, sometimes within the same scene.

Patrick Breen delivers a tour-de-force performance as Roger. He beautifully captures the dual feelings of yearning and regret. His nuanced performance adds depth to his character and keeps the viewers engaged throughout. The chemistry between Bernard and Breen is undeniable, and their relationship is brilliantly depicted.

"Milkwater" is an authentic presentation of the struggles, desires, joys, and sorrows of its characters. Studded with emotive performances, rich dialogue, and a compelling narrative, the film is a captivating experience. It presents its characters as deeply flawed yet intrinsically humane, making the viewers connect with them and their experiences.

Overall, "Milkwater" is a compelling narrative of self-discovery, pushing boundaries, and confronting life's unpredictabilities. It challenges traditional societal norms and presents a fresh perspective on relationships and parenthood, making it a remarkable watch.