Inspired by true events, The Year Between is the story of Clemence Miller (played by writer-director Alex Heller), a college sophomore who is forced to move back home following a breakdown. Faced with a surprising diagnosis of bipolar disorder and a jarring return to the Illinois suburbs, Clemence has to learn how to love with her well-meaning but frustrated family. Funny, warm-hearted, fresh, and honest, The Year Between is an exemplary debut by Alex Heller; based on her own mental health struggles, Heller has crafted a poignant, powerful, and entertaining story of an individual and a family managing the highs and lows of adjusting to a new normal.

Notes by David O’Mahony

Screening as part of IFI & First Fortnight 2024.