My Own Normal (2024)

-Written by Kyle Bain.

Alexander Freeman (writer/director) suffers from cerebral palsy–and while his life may not look normal on paper, his hopes and dreams are the same as yours and mine. My Own Normal details the unique, yet interestingly familiar ventures of Alexander (Alex)–showcasing his relationship with his parents, raising his daughter, and the potential for marriage. 

My Own Normal is a difficult film to watch–often bringing on panic attacks during my viewing. Alex struggles so much to speak, sometimes even single words–and his struggle becomes the struggle of everyone watching. My Own Normal works as a result of this, as a result of Alex being able to present himself honestly. He doesn’t hold back, and there’s a truth present in the entirety of this film, permeating it every step of the way. Alex’s unwavering presence is the highlight of this documentary, as it’s viewers’ way into the film, to understand Alex and both his struggles and successes. 

There’s something quite visceral and poignant about My Own Normal, a deep dive into the harrowing reality of the film’s leading individual. Again, Alex’s ability to remain genuine throughout is inviting and intriguing. Beyond him, however, I was forced to question the others presented to us. Orina Umansky Freeman (Alex’s significant other) is the one that comes into question. I struggled with her motives; I struggled to understand her or believe her throughout the duration of the film. I can’t quite tell if that’s a result of her actually being deceitful or if this issue comes as a result of the direction. Could Alex have framed Orina more effectively? Could the vernacular have been different? Yes on both counts. I don’t want to point fingers, accusing Orina of being a manipulative wretch–and the truth may be as simple as she wasn’t given the opportunity to be her authentic self in this documentary. There are a series of variables to consider in regard to Orina’s character throughout My Own Normal, and regardless of what the actual issue was, she’s quite vexing. 

What Alex does incredibly well in his direction is focus on a small portion of his life, creating a succinct film that showcases what he believes to be the most important aspects of his life. I believe that by omitting his formative years, only vaguely glossing over the struggles of his youth–he creates something of a shock factor, something a bit more visceral and effective. My Own Normal needs some help with its direction, but Alex sees things in a unique fashion, and his ability to tell a story is admirable. 

Directed by Alexander Freeman. 

Written by Alexander Freeman & Michaelle McGaraghan. 

Starring Alexander Freeman, Orina Umansky Freeman, Maya Freeman, Linda Freeman, John Freeman, etc. 

6.5/10 = WATCH IT FOR FREE