In the sun-soaked landscapes of Los Angeles, a delicate and awkward queer coming-of-age tale finds its voice in “Am I OK?”, led by Dakota Johnson in a performance that carries the narrative with emotional depth and subtlety. Premiering initially at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival, the film, over two years later, is finally reaching its wider audience, shedding light on a poignant story of self-discovery and friendship.
“Am I OK?” centers around Lucy, portrayed by Dakota Johnson. Lucy’s journey is one of late realization and reconciliation with her sexuality, a journey that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Her story, set against the backdrop of LA’s bright and optimistic environment, is a narrative exploration of the human condition, filled with moments of vulnerability, discomfort, and ultimately, growth.
The film is directed by Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne, whose directing style emphasizes the awkwardness and understated nature of Lucy’s experiences. Lucy is portrayed as a clumsy character, in stark contrast to her best friend Jane, played by Sonoya Mizuno, who is athletic and seemingly fearless. The dynamic between these two friends forms the heart of the film, as Lucy struggles to step out of her comfort zone, built meticulously around her to avoid the chaos of real life.
At 32, Lucy’s life is notably lacking in a defining dimension — her relationships are fleeting, and her job is a monotonous routine. The looming prospect of Jane moving to London with her boyfriend forces Lucy to confront her long-suppressed feelings. In a heart-wrenching scene, Lucy admits to Jane, with tear-filled eyes, that she might be attracted to women, revealing a truth she has kept buried for years. Jane’s response, both comforting and lightly teasing, underscores the deep understanding and bond between them: “This doesn’t come as a surprise to a person who has seen Lucy drive around in her Volvo.
.” This interaction, filled with an array of emotions, sets the tone for the film’s exploration of identity and acceptance.
Dakota Johnson’s portrayal of Lucy is nuanced and empathetic, making the audience feel the internal battles and silent struggles that mark her path towards self-acceptance. The screenplay, crafted by Lauren Pomerantz and based on her own experiences, weaves a rich tapestry of the trials of growing up queer later in life. Pomerantz’s writing expands beyond just Lucy’s personal journey, incorporating the evolution of her friendship with Jane, which is just as central to the story.
Supporting performances by Kiersey Clemons and Molly Gordon add depth to the narrative, but it is the chemistry between Dakota Johnson and Sonoya Mizuno that stands out. Despite playing characters that are polar opposites, Johnson and Mizuno convey a believable and poignant history of friendship — a friendship that has weathered the test of time and has seen both women grow and change in unexpected ways. As Lucy’s reluctance to embrace change conflicts with Jane’s insistence on pushing her out of her comfort zone, tensions rise, leading to significant cracks in their bond.
The film, at just under 90 minutes, achieves a remarkable balance of pacing and emotional weight. It encapsulates the fears and uncertainties of what lies ahead while also celebrating the support and love that come from trusted friendships. With moments that resonate long after the credits roll, “Am I OK?” is successful in portraying the cyclical nature of anxieties about the future, made more bearable with the presence of a reliable friend.
“Am I OK?” is now available for streaming on JioCinema, inviting audiences to dive into this beautiful, heartwarming tale of self-discovery and enduring friendship. It is a poignant reminder that it is never too late to find oneself, and that sometimes, all it takes is a single, genuine conversation to begin the journey towards self-acceptance.
