Tammy's Always Dying

Tammy's Always Dying is a heartfelt and captivating drama film from 2019 that explores the complex and difficult relationship between a mother and her daughter, as they both struggle with personal demons and the challenges of life.

The movie follows the story of Catherine (played by Anastasia Phillips) and Tammy (played by Felicity Huffman), a mother and daughter who have a complicated dynamic. Tammy is a loud, brash, and crude woman who has been struggling with alcoholism for years. Meanwhile, Catherine is her quiet and reserved daughter who works at a local diner and has been taking care of Tammy for as long as she can remember.

The plot of the film centers around Tammy's battle with cancer, which she has been fighting for an extended period of time. Despite her health condition, she continues to live a reckless lifestyle, which often puts her at odds with Catherine. When Tammy is diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, Catherine is faced with the prospect of losing her mother, which triggers a series of emotional events that force her to confront her own fears and insecurities.

Throughout the movie, Catherine grapples with her own inner demons, including unresolved issues with her estranged father, a failed relationship, and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. She also has to come to terms with the fact that her mother's imminent death will leave her alone and without a support system. Tammy, on the other hand, struggles with her alcoholism and her fear of dying alone, which often leads her to act out in self-destructive ways.

As the movie progresses, Tammy's Always Dying takes viewers on an emotional journey that is both poignant and uplifting. The film's director, Amy Jo Johnson, does a fantastic job of balancing the heaviness of the subject matter with moments of humor and lightness, making it an engaging and enjoyable watch.

One of the strongest aspects of this movie is the performances of its two lead actresses, Anastasia Phillips and Felicity Huffman. Phillips delivers a nuanced portrayal of a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world while dealing with the weight of her mother's illness. Her performance is subtle and understated, but powerful and moving. Huffman, meanwhile, portrays the character of Tammy with remarkable depth and complexity. Despite Tammy's rough exterior and self-destructive tendencies, Huffman manages to convey her inherent vulnerability and her deep love for her daughter.

The supporting cast of the film is equally strong, with standout performances from Clark Johnson as Tammy's neighbor and friend and Lauren Holly as Catherine's ex-girlfriend. Johnson brings a warmth and kindness to his role that is both endearing and comforting, while Holly adds a layer of complexity to Catherine's character, exploring her sexuality and romantic history.

Overall, Tammy's Always Dying is a must-see film for anyone who enjoys emotionally resonant stories about the human condition. It deals with themes of family, love, loss, and redemption in an authentic and heartfelt way. The movie is a testament to the power of strong performances and nuanced writing, and it is sure to leave viewers feeling both moved and enlightened.