Mary and Max Analysis

 Mary and Max (2009)

Written, Directed and Designed by: Adam Elliot

Bittersweet. A lot of times we desire to feel, but we only manage to think. We wish we can cry something off, but we can't. We wish we can say something, but we can't. There is a myriad of emotions that are piled up in us, a lot of times. That is how this film made me feel. This film is about two penpals, Mary, an 8 year old girl in Australia and Max, a 44 year old man in America - when Max writes that he's unable to cry, Mary recollects a sad incident in her life, cries and collects her tears and mails them to Max.

The way this film is narrated, the events of their lives pass by so fast that it feels like we have witnessed the entire lives of these characters. There are so many relevant themes which are discussed, self love, depression, vulnerability, friendship, isolation, anxiety, loneliness and many more - but it's not the mere fact that these topics are being discussed that makes the film work. Of course, these themes make the film more relevant - but the underlying thread of friendship and human connection makes it accessible to anyone. I was immediately recalled of Amelie especially because of the voice over, the editing and the usage of music. The idea of penpals, I think started because people don't find enough connection and understanding around them which is why they look for love and validation from elsewhere. In this film, both the characters have such issues. The scene where Mary is rescued by Len - is so heartwarming. The film celebrates being laid back and not being on your toes all the time - with Max, like Richard Linklater does in his films. This film made me feel so many things, I can't even articulate them properly.