Patty’s Picks: New film ‘Emma McCay’ falls short of expectations, receives mixed reviews
Dec 12, 2025
12-12-25-Patty’s Picks
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The new comedy-drama film ‘Emma McCay,’ directed by James L. Brooks, has hit theaters, featuring Ella McCay in the lead role.
The film follows Emma, a young woman trying t
o navigate her life and career, including an attempt to secure a government position, while dealing with familial challenges involving her parents, played by Woody Harrelson and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Film Critic, Patty Spitler, reviewed the movie, expressing disappointment with its execution and awarding it 1 out of 5 stars, despite acknowledging Ella McCay’s potential as an actress.
James L. Brooks, the film’s director and writer, is renowned for his previous works such as ‘Broadcast News,’ ‘As Good as It Gets,’ and ‘Terms of Endearment,’ and has won three Oscars and 22 Emmys.
Despite Brooks’ impressive track record, Spitler questioned how he arrived at the concept for ‘Emma McCay,’ implying that the film did not meet her expectations.
Spitler mentioned that the film is rated PG-13 due to some sexual references and language.
She also noted that her mood might have influenced her perception of the film, suggesting that viewers might need to be in the right mindset to appreciate it.
While ‘Emma McCay’ has received mixed reviews, with some critics either loving or hating it, Spitler hopes that Ella McCay will secure better roles in the future.
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