Ironwood

Ironwood, the 2022 American drama film directed by Melora Walters, is a heartwarming and introspective exploration of friendship, ambition, and the complexities of human relationships. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Wisconsin, the movie follows the journey of two aspiring academics, Alice Easley (played by Sasha Frolova) and Phoebe O'Reilly (played by Lucy Fry), who have been best friends since their undergraduate days. Alice and Phoebe share a strong bond, having come from different walks of life and having found common ground in their passion for learning and teaching. As they navigate the ups and downs of their respective careers, they often share their dreams, aspirations, and fears with each other. When they both receive an email announcing that their alma mater, Wisconsin University, is hiring a new faculty member, they decide to embark on a road trip to the town of Ironwood, where the university is hosting a job fair. As they set off in their trusty car, the scenery outside becomes a metaphor for their inner journeys. They drive through the rolling hills, scenic countryside, and quaint small towns of Wisconsin, engaging in lively conversations and introspective moments. Their banter, filled with humor and wit, reveals their unique personalities, quirks, and insecurities. Alice, who comes from a working-class background, struggles to reconcile her love for academia with the harsh realities of financial insecurity. Phoebe, on the other hand, is more carefree and optimistic, with a seemingly effortless ability to navigate the world. As they near Ironwood, the tension becomes palpable. Both Alice and Phoebe are determined to land the job, and their competitive spirits are awakened. They face the harsh realities of academia, where the pursuit of tenure and recognition often takes precedence over genuine passion and love for teaching. They grapple with the pressure to produce research, secure funding, and conform to the expectations of their department. Despite their differences, they remain loyal to each other, offering words of encouragement and support as they navigate the treacherous waters of academic politics. The job fair, where Alice and Phoebe are scheduled to interview, becomes a pivotal moment in their journey. They are joined by other applicants, each with their own distinct personality and story to tell. There's Alex, the charismatic and confident candidate who seems to have it all together; Emily, the introverted but brilliant scholar who is quietly determined to make a mark; and Jack, the affable and affronted old-school professor who seems to embody the very essence of resistance to change. As they attend the fair, they network, present their research, and engage in rigorous discussions about the future of education. Throughout the day, Alice and Phoebe are forced to confront their own insecurities and doubts. They question their decisions, their choices, and their motivations. They begin to realize that their friendship, which has been a constant in their lives, is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental aspect of their identities. As they face the possibility of separation, they are reminded of the importance of loyalty, trust, and shared values. As the day draws to a close, Alice and Phoebe find themselves at a local diner, discussing their experiences and dissecting their encounters. They share stories, laughter, and tears, rekindling the flame that has always burned between them. In a poignant and touching moment, they come to a profound realization: that their friendship has been a source of strength, inspiration, and growth all along. The movie's conclusion is character-driven, with a narrative that unfolds organically from the characters' interactions. As Alice and Phoebe return to their own lives, they are forever changed by the experiences they've shared on the road. The journey has awakened them to their deep-seated fears, desires, and insecurities, reminding them of the true meaning of friendship and the importance of human connection in the face of uncertainty. " Ironwood" is a beautifully shot film, with a subtle color palette that evokes the rustic charm of Wisconsin's landscapes. The characters' stories are intertwined with the scenic beauty of the state, creating a visual narrative that is both poignant and uplifting. As the credits roll, viewers are left with a profound sense of appreciation for the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of friendship in the face of adversity.