Is To Leslie Based on a True Story? Cast and Review
by Kowsalya
Updated Jun 12, 2023
Is To Leslie Based on a True Story?
In the film "To Leslie," Leslie emerges victorious, winning a substantial sum of $190,000 through a lottery. However, her triumph is short-lived as she quickly dissipates the entire amount of alcohol and drugs. The narrative then fast-forwards six years, portraying Leslie's transient existence as she moves from one motel to another until she eventually finds shelter with her 19-year-old son, James.
Their reunion comes with a condition: James insists that Leslie commit to a life without alcohol. Unfortunately, the movie does not conclude at this point. Despite encountering multiple relapses, Leslie's story takes a turn when she secures employment at a motel, striving to rebuild her life.
The tale presented in "To Leslie" carries a profound emotional weight, leading many to believe it is based on true events. However, it should be clarified that the film is only loosely inspired by a real story.
The writer of "To Leslie," Ryan Binaco, drew inspiration from his late mother while crafting the screenplay. Nevertheless, it is crucial to understand that Leslie is not a direct portrayal of Binaco's mother; rather, she is a fictionalized representation designed for the cinematic experience in "To Leslie."
How To Leslie's Movie Story Differs From Real Life?
Given that Ryan Binaco, the writer of "To Leslie," has not publicly disclosed the specific sources of inspiration for the film's script, it remains uncertain whether the entire storyline is purely fictional or if certain elements are grounded in reality. Nevertheless, in an interview with Riseborough, the lead actress of the movie, she shed some light on the movie's inspiration. Speaking to Deadline, Riseborough stated:
"The film is presented from the perspective of a child who witnessed their mother go through a similar journey. It's as though Ryan has offered his mother, who hailed from a distinct place and background, an opportunity for redemption."
While it is probable that the events depicted in the film are not based on actual occurrences, the bond between Leslie and James, as well as James' emotions towards his mother, are likely drawn from personal experiences that Ryan Binaco encountered, resembling James' story. Ultimately, it is important to recognize that the characters in "To Leslie" are fictional creations, and the narrative developments are a product of the screenplay's invention.
To Leslie
"To Leslie" is a drama film released in 2022, marking the directorial debut of Michael Morris, and written by Ryan Binaco. The talented Andrea Riseborough takes on the lead role of Leslie Rowland, a single mother battling alcoholism, who recklessly squanders her lottery winnings.
However, a glimmer of hope arises when she is presented with an opportunity for redemption through a job offer from a motel owner. The supporting cast includes notable actors such as Allison Janney, Marc Maron, Andre Royo, Owen Teague, and Stephen Root.
The film made its debut at the South by Southwest festival on March 12, 2022, and subsequently had a limited release on October 7, 2022, distributed by Momentum Pictures.
"To Leslie" has received widespread critical acclaim, with particular praise directed towards Andrea Riseborough's exceptional performance, leading to her being nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
To Leslie Plot
"To Leslie," tells the gripping story of Leslie Rowland, a single mother struggling with alcoholism. The film begins with Leslie winning a substantial sum of money through the lottery, but her addiction quickly leads her to squander all the winnings.
Fast forward six years, and Leslie is living a nomadic existence, moving from one motel to another. Eventually, she reunites with her 19-year-old son, James, who sets a condition for her to quit drinking if she wants to stay with him.
However, Leslie's journey toward recovery is far from smooth. Despite her initial efforts, she experiences multiple relapses, causing further strain on her relationship with James.
Determined to turn her life around, Leslie manages to secure a job at a motel, providing her with an opportunity to rebuild her shattered life. Throughout her journey, Leslie encounters various challenges and temptations, testing her resilience and commitment to sobriety.
The film delves into the raw and emotional aspects of Leslie's struggle, capturing the complexities of addiction, redemption, and the profound bond between a mother and her child. Through Leslie's character, the audience witnesses the harrowing consequences of addiction and the immense strength required to overcome it.
To Leslie Review
"To Leslie" is a heartfelt country song of a movie, beautifully capturing themes of love and loss. Screenwriter Ryan Binaco drew inspiration from his own mother, resulting in a film reminiscent of Barbara Loden's "Wanda" or Scorsese's "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore."
Directed by Michael Morris, making his feature debut, the film has a touch of contrivance and an implausible final scene. However, it remains compelling due to an outstanding performance by Andrea Riseborough, whose portrayal garnered her a well-deserved Best Actress nomination at the Academy Awards.
Riseborough plays Leslie, a single mother who, after winning a significant sum in the lottery, spirals into a life consumed by addiction. She becomes virtually homeless, alienating her family and estranged from her son James.
The narrative explores the consequences of her actions, leading to a painful confrontation with former friends and a chance at redemption through a cleaning job at a motel owned by Sweeney (Marc Maron).
Riseborough's performance is remarkable, capturing Leslie's complex transformation from a glamorous drinker to a vulnerable soul facing the harsh realities of her life.
Despite losing all her money, the film highlights the lingering effects of addiction and a sense of entitlement. Riseborough portrays Leslie as a fallen queen, exiled from her former life, while the judgmental attitudes of others reflect their own complicity. The film delves into Leslie's struggle for redemption, although the ending doesn't entirely match the realism established throughout the narrative.
"To Leslie" is a powerful exploration of compassion, everyday struggles, and the pursuit of redemption. Riseborough's exceptional acting elevates the film, leaving a lasting impact.
To Leslie Netflix Cast
Here is the cast list of To Leslie:
Actor
Character
Andrea Riseborough
Leslie "Lee" Rowland
Marc Maron
Sweeney
Owen Teague
James
Allison Janney
Nancy
Andre Royo
Royal
Stephen Root
Dutch
James Landry Hebert
Pete
Catfish Jean
Darren
Scott Subiono
Rancher Glen
Blake Robbins
The Handyman
Matt Lauria
Handsome Outlaw
Is To Leslie Based on a True Story - FAQs
The storyline of the movie To Leslie follows the journey of Leslie Rowland, a single mother, and alcoholic who squanders her lottery winnings on alcohol and drugs. The film depicts her struggles, relapses, and eventual attempt to turn her life around by finding employment at a motel.
The main actors in To Leslie are Andrea Riseborough, who portrays Leslie Rowland, Marc Maron as Sweeney, Owen Teague as James, Allison Janney as Nancy, Andre Royo as Royal, and Stephen Root as Dutch.
To Leslie is based on a true story. Although the writer, Ryan Binaco, drew inspiration from his own mother, the film is a fictional account and not a direct depiction of real events.
To Leslie falls under the genre of drama. It explores themes of addiction, redemption, and the complex relationships between the characters.