Writer and director James L. Brooks returns to directing a movie with a good heart. There are many positive, down-to-earth traits in Ella McCay, a story where family, politics, and life areblended with turmoil. The narration keeps the film alive and afloat. At the same time, this gem of a movie is not only funny but poetic. The film is focused on someone trying to fulfill happiness while grappling with various challenges and plateaus in life.

Emma Mackey plays Ella McCay. She is dealing with conflicts with her father Eddie McCay, played by Woody Harrelson. In the story, she also has back and forth issues with her motherHelen McCay, played by Jamie Lee Curtis. Emma is into politics and is working to run for governor. She has a mixed relationship with the current governor named Bill, played by Albert Brooks. There are many moving components where life is up and down for Ella. At the same time, the main character’s go-getter persona makes Ella McCay delightful.

The film captures Ella trying to be this lady of wonders. What makes this movie extra special is seeing Ella thriving through the role of the narrator, Estelle. She is also Ella’s Secretary, played by Julie Kavner. What could be more entertaining than hearing the voice of Marge Simpson explain details throughout a wondrous portrait of reality? Many times, Estelle steps out of her role to narrate which made me love Ella McCay even more. There are many scenes in the film where there is a layer of reassurance. Brooks knows how to adjust the dynamics so that even during down moments the audience can find the light of joy.

I adore the role of Mackey, because she plays an individual who displays an unstoppable force of tenderness. No matter how devastating matters in her life are, her character is created to fall and get back up. She does this frequently and courageously in Ella McCay. To elaborate on this, she has a brother named Casey, played by Spike Fearn. Casey has some learning struggles and spends most of his time in introvert mode. Yet, he has the audacity to try to get back with his ex-girlfriend named Susan, played by Ayo Edebiri. This talented actress has a unique way of bringing neutral emotions to the table. Moving forward, Casey wants to try again with Susan, and Ella inspires him. The theme of siblings helping each other out is thought-provoking and endearing in Ella McCay. When all may feel lost, there is still a chance of reconciliation and improvement.

Even though many of the characters are in the film only briefly, and the film’s writing may be a bit all over the place, the concept of positivity is one-of-a-kind in Ella McCay. Brooks has created a masterpiece in which the puzzling components of life and human errors are featured. There may be numerous hurdles facing Ella McCay, but Brooks creates a portrait that makes audiences think deeply about what makes us human and resilient. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for Ella McCay.