Palindromes

Todd Solondz’s casting of eight different actors of varying ages, genders and races to play the lead role of Aviva, makes for a truly original film.

13-year-old Aviva is desperate for a baby and desperately vulnerable. Played by eight different actors of varying ages, genders and races, including a then-42-year-old Jennifer Jason Leigh, this radical casting choice is not a gimmick, but central to the film. Aviva could be anyone, any misfit or dreamer repeatedly trying to navigate a morally ambiguous and corrupt world.

Narratively and morally, director Todd Solondz offers no reassurance or answers. In fact, he advised audiences watching this film: “even if you’re not sure you understand the what or the why of it all (and I’m not sure I do), just let yourself go.” Palindromes is a disorienting and often cruel film, but for those willing to stay the course, it delivers a truly original experience exploring identity, moral ambiguity and the messiness of human life.