Carly Stone’s North of Normal is based on the autobiography of Cea Sunrise Person. The film recounts the life of Cea, who spent her childhood growing up in a Western Canadian wilderness camp run by her maternal grandparents. Her mother, Michelle (Sarah Gadon) eventually leaves the camp for a more conventional life, bringing Cea with her from one boyfriend to another. Driven by strong performances that really bring a sense of empathy to characters that are naturally flawed-Sarah Gadon – one of Canada’s most talented working actresses – shines the brightest. She’s able to draw you in with her radiant personality, but never hides her blemishes either. The maternal bond between Cea and Michelle is ultimately what holds the film together. We might not be able to relate to the experiences, but the film finds a way to play its emotional notes in a way that makes everything feel familiar. Stone has strong storytelling sensibilities, and has created a narrative experience that’s grounded in honesty, and never lacking in empathy.—Film Inquiry

“An engrossing tale and one of the best-directed film adaptations of the year.”–Far Out