“It focuses not just on the act of being abandoned but the psychological implications of not being accepted for who one is”: Trace Lysette and Andrea Pallaoro on Monica

Andrea Pallaoro’s Monica follows its titular protagonist as she returns to her Midwestern roots after two decades to care for her ailing mother. Starring Trace Lysette and Patricia Clarkson, this intimate family drama explores a trans woman’s experiences with family rejection, touching on themes of the raw emotional impact of abandonment and complexities of rejection and acceptance, heartbreak and forgiveness, and the stark confrontation we all eventually face with ageing and mortality. Told through the lens of Monica’s introspective journey, Pallaoro immerses his audience in her world, capturing up close both her pain and fear and her profound needs and desires, elements of the human condition that resonate universally. 

The Upcoming had the pleasure of speaking with Lysette and the film’s director during Venice Film Festival. The actress shared how, although she was unfamiliar with Pallaoro’s work initially, she was drawn to the authentic representation and the lead trans narrative. Working with Clarkson, they developed a natural mother-daughter bond on set. Lysette hopes the film conveys themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, and reflects on gradual societal progress towards transgender acceptance. She highlighted the significance of starring in a Venice Film Festival competition film, and mentioned her next project, Dope Queens, a romantic thriller.

Pallaoro then spoke about how the film forms part of a trilogy centring on a female lead, following Hannah and Medeas, and aims to explore the profound emotional impact of abandonment. He praised the cast, including Clarkson and trailblazing trans actress Lysette, and emphasised the collaborative filmmaking process aimed at creating a relatable experience for the audience. Pallaoro further shared his aspiration for Monica’s story to foster empathy and progress in societal acceptance of trans individuals.

Sarah Bradbury

Monica is released in select cinemas on 15^th December 2023.

Watch the trailer for Monica here: