'Mouse' review: Rich, bittersweet US coming-of-age drama from 'Saint Frances' filmmakers

The latest work from Kelly O'Sullivan and Alex Thompson bows in Berlin Panorama

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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It's 2002 in North Little Rock, Arkansas, and the senior year of high school is on the horizon. Callie (Chloe Coleman) has her whole future mapped out; it's a plan that involves getting good grades, getting into a top college, and leaving her small town behind. But when Callie's estranged father suddenly reappears, her carefully constructed world begins to unravel.

Why it matters

The film 'Mouse' is the latest work from the filmmaking duo of Kelly O'Sullivan and Alex Thompson, who previously collaborated on the acclaimed indie drama 'Saint Frances'. The coming-of-age story explores themes of family, identity, and the challenges of growing up in a small town, resonating with audiences seeking rich, character-driven stories.

The details

Set in 2002 in North Little Rock, Arkansas, 'Mouse' follows Callie, a high school senior who has her future meticulously planned out. However, the unexpected reappearance of her estranged father disrupts Callie's carefully constructed world, forcing her to confront her past and reevaluate her plans for the future.

  • The film is set in 2002 in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
  • The story takes place as Callie is about to begin her senior year of high school.

The players

Callie

The film's protagonist, a high school senior in North Little Rock, Arkansas, who has her future carefully planned out.

Kelly O'Sullivan

One of the filmmakers behind 'Mouse', having previously collaborated with Alex Thompson on the acclaimed indie drama 'Saint Frances'.

Alex Thompson

The other half of the filmmaking duo behind 'Mouse', having previously collaborated with Kelly O'Sullivan on 'Saint Frances'.

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The takeaway

With its rich, bittersweet exploration of family, identity, and the challenges of growing up, 'Mouse' is a poignant coming-of-age drama that resonates with audiences seeking character-driven stories that capture the complexities of life.