Set against the backdrop of Montreal in 1992, "Happy Face" tells the poignant story of Stan, a 19-year-old who finds himself at a crossroads in life. Estranged from his mother, who is battling cancer, Stan grapples with feelings of helplessness and confusion. In a bid to reconnect with her and perhaps to seek some form of understanding of her suffering, he makes a bold and unconventional decision. He disguises himself and enters the world of a therapy workshop specifically designed for disfigured patients. This choice, though misguided, reflects his deep desire to bridge the emotional distance between him and his mother, making it a transformative journey for both characters.
As Stan immerses himself in the support group, he encounters a diverse range of individuals, each bearing their own unique struggles and stories. The characters he meets serve as mirrors to his own fears and insecurities, as they confront the societal stigma associated with physical disfigurement and the emotional scars it leaves behind. Throughout the sessions, Stan is forced to confront not only the superficial aspects of beauty and acceptance but also the profound connections that can be formed through shared vulnerability and hardship. These interactions challenge his initial motives, pushing him to grow and re-evaluate his understanding of identity and compassion.
Ultimately, "Happy Face" is a touching exploration of the human spirit, resilience, and the complex nature of familial ties. As Stan navigates the intricacies of his relationships within the therapy group, he begins to piece together his own sense of self, while learning invaluable lessons about empathy and acceptance in the process. The film captures the essence of how healing can occur in the most unexpected places, laying bare the raw emotions that come with connecting with others who, like him, carry their own scars.
Main Cast of Happy Face
Robin L'Houmeau
Debbie Lynch-White
Debbie Lynch-White delivers a poignant and transformative performance as Vanessa in the movie 'Happy Face.' Her portrayal of a woman with acromegaly, a hormonal disorder that causes excessive growth, is both heart-wrenching and empowering. Lynch-White brings a deep empathy and nuanced understanding to her character, capturing the emotional complexities of living with a visible difference. Her ability to convey Vanessa's inner strength, resilience, and vulnerability resonates with authenticity, drawing the audience into her journey. Lynch-White's performance is not only a testament to her range as an actress but also serves as a powerful vehicle for representation and inclusivity on screen. Through her compelling portrayal, she challenges societal perceptions of beauty and normalcy, while fostering a dialogue about acceptance and empathy. Her scenes are among the film's most affecting, as she navigates the challenges of her character's condition with grace and an unflinching dignity that lingers long after the credits roll.
Secondary Cast of Happy Face
David Roche
Cindy Nicholsen
Alison Midstokke
Pauline Beal
Dawn Shaw
Keith Widgington
Daniel Boloten
Dinh S Nguyen
Romy Gendelmen
Dean Perseo
Crew of Happy Face
Full backstage crew list →- Released on November 01, 2018