Opinion/By JEANNI RITCHIE

The No. 1 movie in the nation didn’t initially look like something I’d enjoy. I’d seen the trailer twice. Sometime before I saw it a third time I’d lightened up and understood the creative intent. The fact that it was in its second week at the top made it must-see.

The timing was symbolic. I’d just embarked on my second act writing full-time. Bryce Dallas Howard’s Elly was a novelist with anxiety issues. The camaraderie I felt with her character was needed. A writer’s life is solitude. Connecting to a character for a couple of hours is a healthy alternative to frequent isolation.

It was a hard-fought attempt; the GPX projector malfunctioned and the next standard showing wasn’t for another hour. I waited, the excitement of my availability to be flexible superseding my frustration at the delay. I was on assignment; I would accomplish my mission.

At some point it was going around the theater that a movie critic was in attendance. That wasn’t entirely accurate. I offer perspective, not criticism, and my desire is to promote the arts and mental positivity. They are often intertwined. If you are looking for negativity you won’t find it here. Like pizza, there are no bad movies. Just ones I won’t rewatch.

The plot was interesting and the characterization was relatable. Ellie’s desire to seek reassurance while becoming untethered from those she loved was palpable. I knew her fire and her fear. I was rooting for her because I knew by the time the credits rolled, she’d find resolution and I’d move a step closer in my own wellness journey.

The four young men also in the theater for the show were not managing mental health or deep diving into character complexities. Their reasoning for choosing Argylle was much simpler.

“Dua Lipa.”

Jeanni Ritchie is a movie-loving journalist, promoting positive mental health through the arts.