Horsegirls

Writer and director Lauren Meyering's feature film debut, **HORSEGIRLS**, may seem to follow a familiar pattern for films of this genre, but the performances from its very talented cast are what ultimately set it apart. Meyering's film, inspired by co-writer and co-producer Mackenzie Breeden's own experiences, introduces us to Margarita (Lilian Carrier), a 22-year-old autistic woman living with her mother Sandy (Gretchen Mol) in a small town in Oregon. We learn that Margarita is passionate about horses, riding around town on "Cheeseburger," a modified tricycle that resembles a horse, as she struggles with the idea of growing up. However, as Sandy's third round of chemotherapy for cancer comes to an end with diminishing returns, the fiercely protective mother is compelled to push Margarita out of her comfort zone and toward accepting more adult responsibilities. Amid the anxiety and stress of so much change -- the kind of upheaval that can pose additional challenges and uncertainty for neurodivergent individuals -- Margarita stumbles upon a local club of competitive Hobby Horse riders, led by Coach (Jerod Haynes). Enthralled, she joins the group, and despite the social awkwardness of competing alongside much younger riders, Margarita is seen for the first time in a larger social setting as happy, inspired, and driven. Nevertheless, these whimsical activities are precisely the things her mother Sandy has discouraged. When Sandy discovers the Hobby Horse club, it creates a rift in their mother/daughter relationship at the worst possible time. Co-starring Tony Hale and Iqbal Theba (both of whom feel somewhat underwritten here), **HORSEGIRLS** still astonishes with sincere writing that never drifts into mawkishness. But it is the incredible performances of Mol and Carrier that truly capture the heart of the film. As a neurodivergent actress herself, Carrier's performance brings a level of weight and authenticity that surprises and charms throughout. Mol's depiction of Sandy -- a loving but protective mother facing an uncertain future -- is heartbreaking, triumphant, and sincere; arguably a career-best performance. **HORSEGIRLS** inspires and embraces viewers in all the right places.