Sisters (2021 film) (Johnsonverse)
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Sisters is a 2021 American drama film directed by Tim Johnson. It stars Chloe Johnson (who served as a co-writer with Tim), Paige Layle (in her first major acting role), Zendaya, Kate Hudson, Kelly Marie Tran, Tom Holland, John de Lancie, Clancy Brown, and Jerry Seinfeld. The plot follows a young prostitute named Trixie who has custody of her sister Lisa, who has autism, and must protect her.
Plot
Cast
- Chloe Johnson as Trixie Anderson
- Paige Layle as Lisa Anderson
- Zendaya as Lois Carr
- Kate Hudson as Renée Franklin
- Kelly Marie Tran as Mallorie Lee
- Tom Holland as Alex O'Donnell
- John de Lancie as Patrick Anderson
- Clancy Brown as Dr. Travis Jones
- Jerry Seinfeld as Tommy Carr
In addition, Lucas Cruikshank (the creator of the Fred Figglehorn videos) makes a cameo as a washed-up bum who explains to Trixie and Lisa that he peaked in his teenage years.
Production
The film began production in 2017, during production on the film Music, which was directed by Sia in her directorial debut and also features an autistic character. Director Tim Johnson was reportedly disgusted at how Music portrayed autism when he visited the set, and vowed to make a similar film with positive depictions of autism.
Casting
For the character of Lisa, Tim decided to cast an autistic actress for the character of Lisa Anderson as a direct response to Music casting Maddie Ziegler (a neurotypical actress) in the title role; he discovered aspiring Canadian actress Paige Layle.
Release
Critical reception
The film was widely acclaimed. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film received a 98% with its critic consensus stating "Sisters' gripping story and depictions of autism make it an instant classic".