Alien at the Movies

Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson (Saoirse Ronan) is an opinionated strong-willed rebellious teenager growing up Catholic in a blue collar neighborhood of Sacramento circa 2002. She has a turbulent love/hate relationship with her mom (Laurie Metcalf). Ronan & Metcalf are both outstanding in this funny, bittersweet story of a young girl struggling to make all of those growing up life decisions revolving around high school, college, friendships, love, & family. Actress Greta Gerwig turns writer/director for this wonderful teenage angst story with a subtext love story tribute to her hometown of Sacramento. Unfortunately, unless you have actually lived in Sacramento, you won't be able to fully appreciate all of the local references. Well then, just enjoy the many local iconic images of California's capital. But as a long time resident, I could not help but scrutinize every scene for something recognizable of my fair city. Also, one can not help but wonder if or how much of this charming coming-of-age story is autobiographical because it feels emotionally true, human, & relatable.

Alien gives it 3 "being the best version of yourself" stars out of 4.