MONICA, film staring Trace Lysette, who broke ground being the first trans actress to lead a Venice International Film Festival film, at UK and Irish cinemas from next month

MONICA, a film staring Trace Lysette, who broke ground being the first trans actress to lead a Venice International Film Festival film with this project, will be coming to cinemas across the UK and Ireland from December 15.

Following the film’s world premiere at the 79th Venice International Film Festival, the film boasts a cast starring Trace Lysette, Oscar nominee Patricia Clarkson, Emily Browning, Joshua Close and Oscar nominee Adriana Barraza.

MONICA is an intimate portrait of a woman who returns home after a long absence to confront the wounds of her past. Reconnecting with her mother and the rest of her family for the first time since leaving as a teenager, Monica embarks on a path of healing and acceptance. The film delves into Monica’s internal world and state of mind, her pain and fears, her needs and desires, to explore the universal themes of abandonment and forgiveness.

Speaking about his inspiration for the film, director Andrea Pallaoro said: “During the past few years my mother’s illness has compelled me to confront my past and the psychological effects of abandonment. Treading between the interior and exterior, the emotional and physical, MONICA explores the complexities of self worth, the deep-rooted consequences of rejection and the lengths we go to heal our wounds.

“Through a cinematic language that stems from the juxtaposition of the aesthetics of intimacy and alienation, my creative team and I delved into the emotional and psychological landscape of Monica to reflect the precarious nature of self-identity when challenged by the need to survive and ultimately transform.”

MONICA is coming to UK and Irish cinemas from December 15.