Actress/director Sarah Polley sets out to learn more about her mysterious late mother in this moving, intelligent documentary. The relatives and friends she speaks with start digging into a shared past that grows more complex, surprising and touching with each recollection. Polley’s goal isn’t to settle scores or indulge in self-mythology but rather,to unearth the details of a seemingly ordinary life and it’s many hidden layers. 2012, Canada, 108 minutes, documentary, rated PG-13 for sexual references, language
“Sarah Polley’s memoir is a poignant, funny and engrossing film, challenging our notions of memory and family mythology.” – Claudia Puig, USA Today
“Stories We Tell has a number of transparent virtues, including its humor and formal design, although its most admirable quality is the deep sense of personal ethics that frames Ms. Polley’s filmmaking choices.” – Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
NY Times Critics’ Pick
“With its ingenious structure, seamless visual conceits and mordant humor, Stories We Tell is a masterful film on technical and aesthetic values alone. But because of the wisdom and compassion of its maker, it rises to another level entirely.” – Ann Hornaday, Washington Post
“An invigorating powerhouse of a personal documentary, adventurous and absolutely fascinating.” – Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times
