Cherry: An Ambitious, Yet Uneven, Exploration of Trauma and Addiction
“Cherry,” starring Tom Holland, is a film that sparks debate. While Holland’s performance, and the efforts of the supporting cast, are generally praised, the film itself garners mixed reactions. This often stems from its expansive narrative scope, attempting to encapsulate a substantial portion of the protagonist’s life. As a biographical drama tackling complex issues, its ambition is evident, though perhaps not always successfully executed.
Tom Holland as Cherry in a pivotal scene. The film follows his journey through love, war, and addiction. Alt: Tom Holland intense expression.
The storyline revolves around Cherry (Holland), a young man whose privileged upbringing is juxtaposed with the harsh realities he later faces. A temporary separation from his girlfriend, Emily, triggers an impulsive decision: enlisting in the army. However, just before his deployment, Emily has a change of heart, abandoning her plans to study elsewhere. Despite their reconciliation and hasty marriage, Cherry proceeds with his military service, setting the stage for the trials that await him.
The Lingering Wounds of War: A Descent into Darkness
Cherry’s experiences as an army medic on the front lines are brutal and unforgiving. He’ exposed to relentless violence, and carnage, leaving invisible mental scars. The intense trauma he endured manifests as severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) when he returns home. Nightmares, irritability, heightened anxiety, and inability to adjust to civilian life plaque him. To cope with the pain, he desperately seeks out an escape in the form of prescription medication. However, his relief is short-lived: this temporary soother becomes full-blown drug addiction, spiraling out of control at an alarming rate and tragically dragging Emily along with him.
Alt: A poignant scene depicting Cherry providing medical aid amidst the chaos of war, showcasing the heavy burden he carries.
Driven by desperation to get money to fund their growing addiction, Cherry is backed into a tragic corner and ends up resorting to a life of crime.
Unraveling Identity and Lost Hope
“Cherry” meticulously charts our protagonist’s journey from early college life into his challenging military service and his subsequent battle as a veteran. At its core, Cherry’s tragic downward spiral is rooted in unaddressed emotional vulnerabilities and the profound ripple effect of his intense/challenging relationship with Emily. It spotlights emotional regulation/resilience and the wide-ranging consequences of carrying around unresolved trauma. His individual turmoil reflects the broader societal neglect faced by returning soldiers with emotional damage.
Alt: Emily and Cherry are holding each other. The focus is on the strong emotion on their faces.
A Call for Systemic Change
“Cherry” isn’t just a character study, it also raises a critical voice, by drawing attention to the desperate need for improved, comprehensive support networks/systems for armed forces veterans (especially when it comes to getting comprehensive treatment for any mental health issues). It also serves as an important reminder: just how devastating the effects of drug addiction is, not only on individuals directly impacted, but also on those around them (loved ones, family, etc.)
Alt: Extreme closeup showcasing the despair mirrored in Cherry’s glossy, bloodshot eyes.
Distinct Impression: The Russo Brothers Directorial Mark
“Cherry,” undeniably, brandishes the Russo brothers’ special, unique directorial style, that is typified with its extremely distinctive visual aesthetic choices and uncommon narrative decisions. While they do add an element of flair and uniqueness to the film, these artistic-heavy choices may hinder its wide-spread appeal to the masses.