Wildflower (2023)
A coming-of-age comedy-drama about growing up with an intellectually disabled parent, starring Kiernan Shipka and Alexandra Daddario.
Wildflower - Movie Information
- Original Title: Wildflower
- Release Year: 2023
- Directed by: Matt Smukler
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy, Drama
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 5, 2023 (Brazil), October 5, 2023 (Mexico - B)
- Alternative Titles: Una Familia Extraordinaria (MX), Fleur Sauvage (CA)
- Production Companies: Entertainment One, Hunting Lane Films, Limelight, Morning Moon Productions
- Production Countries: Canada, United States of America
Wildflower - Plot
The story of Bea Johnson from birth to graduation as she navigates life with an intellectually disabled parent and an extended family who can't quite agree on the best way to help.
Wildflower - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what awaits in this heartfelt story:
A little heartache, a lot of love.
Where to Watch Wildflower
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Wildflower - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Matt Smukler
Main Cast
- Kiernan Shipka
- Alexandra Daddario
- Charlie Plummer
- Jean Smart
- Jacki Weaver
- Kannon Omachi
- Dash Mihok
- Reid Scott
- Samantha Hyde
- Ryan Kiera Armstrong
Writers
- Jana Savage
- Matt Smukler
Producers
- Ethan Lazar
- Billie Lourd
- Katie McNeill
- Kyle Owens
- Chris Parker
Wildflower - FAQs
What is Wildflower about?
Wildflower follows Bea Johnson from birth through high school graduation as she grows up with an intellectually disabled parent. Caught between a loving but struggling home life and a well-meaning but divided extended family, Bea must find her own path forward in this warm, bittersweet coming-of-age story.
Is Wildflower based on a true story?
Yes, Wildflower is inspired by real events. The screenplay, written by Jana Savage and Matt Smukler, draws from Savage's own personal experiences growing up with an intellectually disabled parent, giving the film an authentic emotional core that resonates throughout Bea's journey.
Who plays Bea Johnson in Wildflower?
Kiernan Shipka plays Bea Johnson, the film's central character, in her teenage and young adult years. Ryan Kiera Armstrong portrays Young Bea in the earlier sequences. Shipka brings real depth and nuance to the role, anchoring the film's emotional journey from start to finish.
Where can you stream Wildflower (2023)?
You can stream Wildflower on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. It's also available with ads on Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads, and The Roku Channel. If you prefer to own or rent, Google Play Movies and YouTube both have it available.
What is the age rating for Wildflower?
Wildflower is rated R in the United States. The rating reflects mature themes explored throughout the film, including family dysfunction, intellectual disability, and the emotional challenges of growing up in a complicated household. It's best suited for adult viewers and older teens.
How does Wildflower handle its sensitive subject matter?
Wildflower approaches intellectual disability with care and humanity rather than melodrama. Rooted in screenwriter Jana Savage's personal experiences, the film avoids easy answers and instead portrays a messy, loving family dynamic with honesty. Critics praised its refusal to sentimentalize, letting the characters' warmth speak for itself.
Who directed Wildflower and who wrote the screenplay?
Matt Smukler directed Wildflower and co-wrote the screenplay alongside Jana Savage. Savage's personal story forms the backbone of the script, while Smukler brings a grounded, character-focused directorial approach that lets the ensemble cast shine throughout the film's 105-minute runtime.
What movies are similar to Wildflower (2023)?
If you enjoyed Wildflower, you might also like As Cool as I Am (2013), Waiting for Bojangles (2021), Juniper (2021), and Somewhere in Queens (2023). These films share similar themes of unconventional family dynamics, coming-of-age resilience, and the bittersweet comedy that comes with navigating an imperfect but loving home.
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