Chicago International Film Festival Review: "Liz Here Now"
Director Sterling Macer Jr. brings his creative vision to an adaptation of Todd Connor’s autobiographical novel, “Liz Here Now.” He co-writes the screenplay with Grant Nieporte and Caleb G. Brown, while Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor stars in the lead role.
Set in late-sixties Oakland, the film draws inspiration from Connor’s childhood. Liz Baxter (Ellis-Taylor) is a kind-hearted housekeeper for the seemingly perfect Connor family: a prominent doctor, his elegant wife Jane (Rachelle Lefevre), and their two children, Chrissy (Aniela Zeig) and Todd (Brady Wagner).
However, beneath their polished exterior, Jane is abusing the children. When Liz discovers this dark secret, she resolves to protect the kids at all costs. As the situation escalates, Liz must also navigate the racial tensions of Oakland during the rise of the Black Panther Party.
Though I wasn't familiar with the original book, I've admired Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor since her early role in 1996's “Girls Town.” I've always found her performances to blend intellectual elegance with a grounding presence that transcends the notion of “Black girl magic.” So, knowing she was cast as the lead piqued my interest.
Macer Jr. follows the standard biopic formula, occasionally relying on predictable emotional beats, but fortunately, he's supported by a committed cast led by Ellis-Taylor. Liz’s maternal instincts resonate when it comes to protecting the children. Although the more intense scenes of abuse mostly occur off-camera, we witness their aftermath. The script also explores Liz's own family life, where feelings of neglect add another layer to her responsibilities.
Ellis-Taylor delivers a performance that demonstrates her ability to handle such a complex role with ease. Rachelle Lefevre portrays Jane with chilling malevolence. Having previously played Victoria in the first two “Twilight” films, Lefevre is no stranger to portraying villainous characters. The screenplay hints at the motivations behind Jane’s abusive behavior but doesn't provide enough psychological depth to make her more than a deeply troubling antagonist.
Kyle McConaghy's cinematography authentically captures the period, while the score wisely avoids becoming overly clichéd or emotionally manipulative. My main concern with “Liz Here Now” is the underrepresentation of the Black Panther Party. While I didn’t expect to see historical figures like Bobby Hutton, Huey Newton, or Eldridge Cleaver, the role given to rising actor Patrick Walker, who portrays a Black Panther, is vastly underwritten.
The film introduces this fascinating historical backdrop but never fully develops its potential, leaving an important element of the story feeling like an afterthought.
Despite that missed opportunity, I believe “Liz Here Now” serves not only as a means of healing for Todd Connor but also as a tribute to the woman who saved his life. In that respect, the film succeeds.
Final Grade: B
