On May 2, 2024, director Hannah Marks brought John Green's "Turtles All the Way Down" to the big screen. Starring Isabela Merced as Aza Holmes, the film is one for the whole family and can be watched on HBOMax, Amazon Prime or YoTube TV. 

The plot follows Aza as she reconnects with her old friend, Davis (played by Felix Mallard). As their friendship turned into something more serious, Aza grappled with obsessive thoughts about germs and questioned her ability to maintain a meaningful relationship. 

Instead of the predictable storyline where Aza is miraculously cured of OCD, Green focused on managing OCD with the help of supportive friends. Her best friend, Daisy, reminded her that life would be hard. Still, she would always love and be loved. Additionally, Davis remained patient and understanding with her, making Aza feel like a "girl worthy of having a crush on."

Another significant part of the plot was the relationship between Aza and her mom. Like many parents, Aza's mom wanted to protect her child in any way she could. She checked in on her during her breaks at school and told her it was best not to attend college due to her OCD. Aza felt hurt by her mom's desires and saw it as a sign that her mother didn't believe in her. 

As the plot progressed, both Aza and her mom evolved. Aza grew thankful for her mom and all the ways she helped her manage her OCD. And Aza's mom recognized that Aza possessed more capability than she had initially realized.

I found the relationship between these two characters very relatable. Many parents of teens with OCD and other challenges often want to protect their children. Conversely, many teens with with mental or emotional challenges long to be seen as "normal." Any suggestion to the contrary, even if it stems from parental concern, can feel threatening. 

Finding the balance between the two is what makes the relationship between parents and teens with OCD very complicated and very beautiful.

Beyond the plot, the acting shone brightly. Merced could have easily portrayed Aza's OCD as "quirky" or "just being weird." Instead, she played Aza with authenticity and relatability that left the audience wanting more. Furthermore, Cree Chicchinos’ portrayal of Daisy was skillfully balanced between being the comic relief and being a kind and supportive friend for Aza.

The editing was also off the chain. The visual portrayal of germ and the voice-over intrusive thoughts allowed the audience to empathize with Aza. It also showed the realities of OCD: that it is not "cute" or just a fear of germs. It is hard and painful. 

Ultimately, “Turtles All the Way Down” was a moving and honest exploration of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder that is a must-see for all. The film captured the pain and complexity of wanting to be “normal” in a world that is constantly telling you otherwise. More importantly, it celebrates the true joy of being seen for who we truly are. 

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