Madeline's Madeline

Madeline, a solitary teenager, discovers a newfound passion as she joins a dynamic experimental theater troupe. This marks the beginning of her journey where she will engage in a live production of *The Three Little Pigs* alongside her fellow actors and their director, Evangeline.

While Madeline enjoys the camaraderie of the theater, she struggles with the relationship she has with her mother, Regina. Their conversations often lead to arguments, as Regina fails to understand Madeline's deeper emotional needs.

During a rehearsal, Madeline shares a troubling dream with Evangeline, where she envisions placing a hot iron on her mother. This disturbing imagery raises concerns, prompting Evangeline to suggest they explore the dream through improv exercises to understand Madeline's feelings better.

The emotional burden of intertwining her life and art becomes too much for Madeline. Feeling overwhelmed, she decides to leave the theater, instigating a frantic search by her mother, Regina, who worries for her daughter's well-being.

Upon their reunion, Regina learns of Madeline's expired prescriptions for her mental health condition. This revelation heightens Regina's anxiety as she struggles to get her daughter the necessary care and medication while trying to manage her own emotions.

Evangeline begins to shift the artistic direction of their performance to reflect Madeline's personal experiences. This decision brings the emotional narrative to the forefront, fostering deeper connections amongst the cast.

During a promotional photoshoot for the production, Evangeline invites Regina to join Madeline, reinforcing familial ties as they both become part of the creative process. This moment emphasizes the blend of personal and artistic expression.

Madeline is invited to celebrate Evangeline's birthday after a rehearsal. Showcasing her acting skills, Madeline engages with the guests, including a flirtation with Evangeline's husband, which adds another layer of complexity to her existence in the theater world.

A heartfelt conversation between Madeline and Evangeline reveals their vulnerabilities. Madeline expresses her desire to step back from acting, and Evangeline supports her decision, giving Madeline a moment of relief and space to explore her identity.

Evangeline unexpectedly visits Madeline at home, where they share wine and discuss acting. Evangeline encourages Regina to take an interest in the theatrical world, suggesting she attend the next rehearsal, thus intertwining their lives further.

At rehearsal, tensions rise when Evangeline leads an exercise where the cast portrays Regina. This unintentional act strikes a deep emotional chord with Madeline, leading her mother to leave the session in tears, showcasing the raw emotions at play.

As Evangeline steps outside to take a phone call, the cast grows wary of her approaches with their emotions. Tired of her perceived manipulation, they come together to stage a performance reflecting their discontent directed toward Evangeline.

Evangeline's refusal to comply with the cast's confrontation results in her being caught up in an improvised expression of freedom. The cast spills into the street, dancing joyfully, while Madeline chooses to walk away, seeking clarity in her life.

As the cast celebrates their expressiveness in the street, Madeline reflects on her own complexities and relationship with her mother. This marks a significant moment of personal growth for her, allowing for newfound insights into her life and art.