Poppy

Poppy, a stirring New Zealand film from 2021, offers a heart-warming portrayal of indomitable spirit, resilience, love, and the unabating human pursuit for self-empowerment. Directed by award-winning director Linda Niccol, the movie features an earnest and relatable performance by Libby Hunsdale who brilliantly brings to life a character that's easy to root for from beginning to end.

The title 'Poppy' comes from the film's main character - Poppy (Libby Hunsdale), a young woman with Down syndrome, who is full of ambition, determination, and spunk. With her high spirits and unwavering ambition, Poppy dreams of becoming an automobile mechanic, a goal that society, including her own brother, deems as unattainable due to her condition. Herein lies the main conflict, shaking up Poppy's world and igniting her inexorable struggle against societal norms.

Each character in the movie is beautifully developed and brought to life by a power-packed performances. Brother Dave, portrayed by Ari Boyland, is an earnest and loving guy ripped between taking care of Poppy and allowing her to be independent. Rob (Seb Hunter) and Cookie (Jonty Austin) on the other hand, become Poppy's unexpected allies on her journey. Seeing their growth and interactions with Poppy is one of the movie's many pleasures, provoking both laughter and a fair share of tears.

The film's premise is set in a small coastal town in New Zealand, painted with a picturesque backdrop that captivates the viewers, perfectly complementing the narrative's charm. Scenes from the local garage, where Poppy aspires to work, play actively to create a sense of reality, making the story incredibly immersive and emotional.

Director Linda Niccol brings a cinematic masterpiece that challenges and transforms the traditional boundaries of filmmaking by telling a story of unconventional dreams. The choice of the protagonist, who fights against societal stereotypes while coping with her individual needs, gives a fresh take on the subject.

At its heart, Poppy is an emotional and uplifting journey of resilience and determination. But it also successfully addresses vital social issues, such as societal prejudices, the need for inclusivity, and the rights of disabled people to chase their dreams and lead an independent life.

Rather than exploit its subject matter, Poppy exudes a raw, real-life feel, largely thanks to an excellent and nuanced performance from Hunsdale. With her innocent charm and remarkable acting skills, she remarkably encapsulates Poppy’s vulnerability, innocence, and sheer grit. The supporting cast, lead by Boyland as her overprotective brother, along with Hunter and Austin, offer credible performances that complement Poppy's journey convincingly.

While visually it is a treat with impressive cinematography capturing the essence of New Zealand's landscapes, it's the compelling storytelling, thoroughly grounded performances, and the important message at its core that make Poppy worth watching. This is complimented by an artful use of music by composer Stephen Gallagher, which perfectly captures the essence of each scene and seamlessly adds depth to the narrative.

In conclusion, Poppy is a poignant yet uplifting saga of courage and resilience that strikes an excellent balance between drama and light-hearted moments. It is a refreshing take on dreams and ambitions, as seen through the prism of Down syndrome. This film stands out as a testament to the human spirit's tenacity and the belief that everyone has the right to dream and the power to make it come true, irrespective of the challenges that life throws at them.

Watch Poppy for its terrific performances, striking visuals, heart-tugging narrative, and a story that stays with you long after the credits roll. It is a truly moving account that will make you laugh, cry and celebrate the indomitable spirit of an extraordinary heroine.