Am I OK? (2022) Movie Review

『In the Midst of Chaos, Discovering the True Self and the Boundary Between Friendship and Love』

🎥 Movie Overview

🎬 Title: Am I OK? (2022)
🌍 Country: 🇺🇸 USA
🎞️ Genre: Drama / Comedy / Queer
⏳ Runtime: 86 minutes
📢 Directors: Tig Notaro, Stephanie Allynne
🖋️ Screenplay: Lauren Pomerantz
📺 Platform: HBO Max (currently Max)

👩‍💼 Cast: Dakota Johnson – Lucy
Sonoya Mizuno – Jane
Kiersey Clemons – Brittany

🧩 In-Depth Story Exploration (Spoilers)

🌱 Honest Answers to the Question “Am I OK?” in One’s 30s

The film Am I OK? (2022) is the joint directorial debut of married comedian couple Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne, based on the real-life experiences of writer Lauren Pomerantz. It deeply resonates by focusing on two central themes: the delicate psychology of a woman who discovers her sexual identity later in life, and the shifting dynamics of a long-standing best friendship.

🌈 Coming Out Later in Life: A Universal Story of Growth and Self-Acceptance

Am I OK? deviates from the typical framework of “coming out” films, which usually focus on teenagers or people in their 20s living in conservative environments. Instead, it centers on Lucy, a woman in her early 30s who is already navigating adult life and long-term friendships.

• The Pressure of Being ‘Late’: At 32, Lucy realizes she is a lesbian and struggles with feelings of shame and self-reproach: “Why am I only realizing this now?” While those around her seem settled and confident, she feels left behind for only now uncovering something so fundamental. This anxiety over a “late awakening” resonates universally with adults who discover key aspects of themselves later in life.

• Rejection of Discomfort: Lucy has long confined herself to the safe space of presumed heterosexuality, seeking only comfort. This manifests in her life choices — working as a spa receptionist instead of pursuing art, and avoiding authentic relationships — creating a state of “stagnation.” The film’s title, Am I OK?, is not only about her sexual identity but also encapsulates a broader question of personal growth and agency: “Am I okay living like this?”

• An Awkward, Realistic Journey: The film humorously yet sincerely portrays Lucy’s clumsy first steps into the queer world — her first crush on a woman, her overwhelming experience at a queer bar, and her confusing connection with Brittany, who identifies as bisexual or fluid. Rather than presenting an idealized romance, it shows the real struggles of a “baby queer” finding her way.

👭 The Dynamics of Lucy and Jane’s Friendship: Fractures and Redefinition of a Codependent Bond

Another profound theme is the portrayal of Lucy and her best friend Jane’s codependent friendship — its cracks, confrontations, and eventual redefinition.

• A Longstanding Codependence: Lucy and Jane are deeply familiar with each other’s habits, preferences, and emotions. Yet their friendship is imbalanced. Jane, with her successful career, takes the lead, while Lucy passively relies on her, hiding in Jane’s shadow and avoiding growth.

• Reaction to Change: Jane’s bombshell that she is moving to London becomes the catalyst for Lucy to confront her identity. Yet Jane’s initial support soon morphs into controlling behavior — “I’ll fix you” — which undermines Lucy’s journey of self-discovery.

• Inevitable Conflict and Growth: Their explosive argument reveals the unhealthy dynamics of their relationship. Jane accuses Lucy of being passive, while Lucy retorts that Jane is domineering. This confrontation forces distance between them, during which Lucy courageously quits her job, resumes painting, and starts dating women through apps — embracing a more active and self-directed life.

• The Evolution of Friendship: By the film’s end, their relationship transforms from an unhealthy codependency into a healthier bond between two independent individuals. Lucy accompanying Jane to London signifies that she is no longer the “fearful Lucy” but a Lucy who takes ownership of her own choices.

🎭 Direction and Performances: Warm Tone and Strong Chemistry

Directors Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne tell this story with a warm, comforting indie comedy-drama tone.

• Dakota Johnson’s Performance: Johnson portrays Lucy with delicate vulnerability and quiet courage. Her awkwardness and nervous energy provide the film with both humor and authenticity, making her performance the emotional anchor of the story.

• Chemistry with Sonoya Mizuno: Sonoya Mizuno brings depth to Jane, balancing affection with arrogance and control. Her dynamic with Johnson feels natural and convincing, adding credibility to their complicated friendship and mutual love.

✨ A Comforting Story of Adult Growing Pains

Am I OK? may not have a highly dramatic or groundbreaking plot, but it gently emphasizes the value of discovering oneself later in life and redefining relationships in healthier ways. It delivers a warm message: not defining your identity or goals by a certain age doesn’t mean you’re “not okay.” Growth is a lifelong journey, and the most important step is reassuring yourself that you are okay as you are.

Ultimately, Lucy’s question — “Am I OK?” — is answered clearly by the film: “You already are, and you will continue to be.”

🎯 Personal Rating

💕 Love Scene Intensity: ♥♥♥

⭐ Rating: ★★★★★