Tully (2018)
“Tully” is a heartfelt and compelling film directed by Jason Reitman and written by Diablo Cody, the team behind Juno. Released in 2018, the movie stars Charlize Theron as Marlo, a mother of three who is struggling with the overwhelming demands of motherhood and life.
At the beginning of the movie, Marlo is exhausted and frazzled, trying to manage her newborn, her older children, and her own mental well-being. Her husband Drew (Ron Livingston) is supportive but somewhat detached from the day-to-day challenges Marlo faces. As Marlo’s exhaustion reaches a breaking point, her wealthy brother suggests hiring a night nanny to help. Enter Tully, played by Mackenzie Davis, a free-spirited and youthful woman who brings a sense of energy, care, and relief into Marlo’s life.
Tully not only helps with the baby but also provides Marlo with emotional support, helping her rediscover parts of herself that had been lost amid the chaos of motherhood. As the bond between Marlo and Tully grows, the film takes an unexpected turn, leading viewers to reflect on the complexities of identity, self-care, and the sacrifices that come with being a parent.
The movie presents an honest portrayal of postpartum depression, burnout, and the hidden emotional toll of parenting, all while balancing humor with moments of raw vulnerability. Charlize Theron’s performance is outstanding, bringing depth and nuance to a character many parents can relate to.