The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom

The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom is a heartwarming 2011 Canadian film directed by Tara Johns. The film tells the story of a young girl named Elizabeth who discovers a family secret that leaves her feeling confused and uncertain of her identity. Elizabeth, who has just turned 11, has always felt that she didn't quite fit in with her family. When she finds out that she was adopted and her birth mother is Dolly Parton, she embarks on a journey to find the country music star and learn the truth about her past.

The film is set in 1976 in a small Saskatchewan town, and the attention to detail in depicting the time period is impressive. The color palette is muted and the costumes evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it easy to transport yourself back in time. The opening scene of the film is particularly striking, with Elizabeth and her best friend exploring the countryside in colorful 70s outfits.

The lead actress, Julia Sarah Stone, delivers a standout performance as Elizabeth. She captures the complexities of a young girl who is struggling to make sense of her place in the world. At times she is shy and withdrawn, at other times she is determined and fiercely independent. But throughout the film, her love for Dolly Parton remains a constant source of comfort and inspiration.

Rebecca Windheim and Rebecca Croll, who play Elizabeth's adoptive parents, also turn in excellent performances. They convey a sense of love and devotion towards Elizabeth, while also revealing their own struggles and vulnerabilities. The dynamic between the three actors is one of the strong points of the film.

As Elizabeth sets out on her adventure to find Dolly Parton, she meets a cast of eccentric characters who help her along the way. There's a kind-hearted and slightly wacky hair salon owner, a gruff but lovable truck driver, and a wise old Native American woman who imparts some valuable life lessons. The interactions between Elizabeth and these characters add a touch of whimsy to the film, and make it a joy to watch.

One of the most striking aspects of The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom is the way it explores the theme of identity. The film asks what it means to be a mother, and whether biology or love is what defines a family. Elizabeth grapples with the question of whether she is more like her birth mother or her adoptive parents, and the movie ultimately shows that it is possible to have multiple identities and still feel a sense of belonging.

Another standout feature of the film is the use of Dolly Parton's music. The film is filled with Parton's iconic songs, which lend the movie a warm and comforting atmosphere. Parton herself does not appear in the film, but her presence is felt throughout. Her music serves as a catalyst for Elizabeth's journey of self-discovery, and provides a sense of continuity and connection throughout the story.

Overall, The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom is a charming and uplifting film that celebrates the power of love and the importance of self-discovery. It is a coming-of-age story that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world. With its engaging performances, richly drawn characters, and evocative setting, this film is sure to bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye.