Sarah Silverman's dramatic turn in "I Smile Back"
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Sarah Silverman in, I Smile Back
Sarah Silverman fans will tell you that she is one of the funniest women on the planet. Although she excels at comedy, Silverman is also a fantastic dramatic actress. She expertly displayed that talent a few years ago in Sarah Polley's film, Take That Waltz but her new film, I Smile Back showcases how amazing and versatile she really is.
In the film Silverman plays Laney an attractive, intelligent suburban wife and devoted mother of two adorable children. She has the perfect husband (Josh Charles) who plays basketball with the kids in the driveway, a pristine house, and a shiny SUV for carting the children to their next activity. However, just beneath the façade lie depression and disillusionment that send her careening into a secret world of reckless compulsion. Only very real danger will force her to face the painful root of her destructiveness and its crumbling effect on those she loves.
Adapted by Paige Dylan and Amy Koppelman from Koppelman's novel of the same name the material is compelling and heart wrenching. Watching Sarah take on this character breaks your heart yet also makes you angry to see how depression, addiction and loneliness can affect anyone.
As one of today’s most gifted and risque comedians, Sarah Silverman takes on this career changing role with so much passion it’s hard to believe she is simply acting.
I spoke with her in September at the Toronto International Film Festival where the film premiered to both critical and audience acclaim.