Ever found yourself stumbling over words, emotions, or even life itself? Well, Disfluency, a moving drama releasing in 2025, captures that very feeling. Directed by Anna Baumgarten, this film explores the complexities of trauma, the often bumpy road to recovery, and the importance of finding your voice again—metaphorically and literally.
What’s It About?
The story revolves around Jane, played by the talented Libe Barer, who returns home to her family’s lake house after failing a college class. But don’t let the academic stumble fool you—this is just the surface of the emotional storm brewing within Jane. The film dives deep into her unresolved trauma that has derailed her senior year. It’s not your typical “woe is me” drama about school stress; it’s about facing the deeper scars that aren’t as easy to fix as a failed test score.
Back in her childhood home, Jane is forced to confront the emotional confusion she has been avoiding. If only we all could binge-watch Netflix or take endless naps to cope like some of us do, right? But Jane’s journey to healing is messy, slow, and painful, just like real-life emotional recovery tends to be.
Meet the Cast
Libe Barer does an incredible job portraying Jane with raw authenticity, capturing that feeling we’ve all had—trying to express what’s wrong when you don’t fully understand it yourself. The supporting cast, including Ariela Barer and Chelsea Alden, enhances the emotional richness of the movie. They play Jane’s sister and friend, bringing both warmth and a touch of frustration to the table, as loved ones sometimes do when we’re struggling.
The Director’s Vision
Anna Baumgarten has crafted a drama that’s both touching and realistic. Through beautifully awkward conversations and long silences, she paints an honest picture of what it’s like to cope with trauma. Baumgarten doesn’t sugarcoat the journey to recovery—there’s no quick fix, and it takes time. The film shows us that sometimes you need to go back to your roots, literally and figuratively, to truly move forward.
Why You Should Watch It
Disfluency isn’t just about a college student dealing with life—it’s about all of us. We’ve all had moments when life trips us up, and this film reminds us that it’s okay to take our time to get back on track. You’ll cry (grab those tissues), but you’ll also find moments of joy and self-reflection.
Set against the calming backdrop of a lake house, the movie contrasts emotional turbulence with serene scenery, making for a visually and emotionally captivating experience. If you’re ready for a film that’s introspective yet uplifting, Disfluency is the one to watch.
The Bottom Line
Disfluency is a story about learning how to speak again—not in the traditional sense, but in reclaiming your life and your voice after being derailed. Jane’s story will resonate with anyone who’s ever struggled to explain their feelings or understand their own trauma. It’s heavy at times but filled with enough heartwarming moments to remind you that recovery, while tough, is possible.
So, cozy up with a blanket, grab some snacks (and maybe your emotional support pet), and get ready for a movie that will stick with you long after the credits roll. Disfluency is one of those rare films that speaks to your soul, reminding you that it’s okay to stumble—just as long as you keep trying to find your way back.
Release Date: 2025
Director: Anna Baumgarten
Starring: Libe Barer, Ariela Barer, Chelsea Alden