Cherry (2021), directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, is an ambitious and raw exploration of trauma, addiction, and disillusionment. Starring Tom Holland in a career-defining performance, the film follows a young man’s turbulent journey from a college dropout to a soldier, then to a heroin addict and bank robber, as he struggles with PTSD after serving in Iraq.
The film is visually striking, employing stylistic flourishes such as shifting aspect ratios and surreal sequences to reflect Cherry’s fractured state of mind. The Russos take a bold, almost chaotic approach to storytelling, breaking the fourth wall and using narration to immerse the audience in Cherry’s psyche. At times, this stylization feels excessive, making certain scenes feel overindulgent rather than impactful.
Holland delivers a deeply committed performance, shedding his boyish charm to embody a character consumed by pain and self-destruction. His chemistry with Ciara Bravo, who plays his love interest, Emily, adds an emotional layer to the film, as their descent into addiction is both heartbreaking and unsettling.
While Cherry is visually and emotionally intense, its sprawling narrative can feel unfocused, dragging in certain sections. The film aims to be a searing indictment of war, mental illness, and the opioid crisis, but its heavy-handed execution sometimes undercuts its message.
Despite its flaws, Cherry is a bold and harrowing film, anchored by a powerful lead performance. It may not be for everyone, but it’s a compelling, if imperfect, portrait of a lost generation.
