Turtles All the Way Down

Aza Holmes wrestles with the pull of closeness and the relentless tide of intrusive thoughts that can derail even ordinary days. The film traces her attempts to connect with others while living inside a loud inner voice that questions every feeling and choice. She leans on her friend Daisy and tests a fragile spark with Davis Pickett Jr., while Gina anchors her with care and honesty. As Aza negotiates school pressures, family expectations, and the stubborn ache of unspoken hope, she learns that vulnerability can be a strength even when fear resists. Small victories arrive in tiny moments of trust, and stubborn optimism keeps her moving forward through the rough patches.

Directed by Hannah Marks, the film adapts John Green's novel for the screen with Isaac Aptaker and Elizabeth Berger among its writers. Isabela Merced stars as Aza Holmes, joined by Cree Cicchino, Judy Reyes, Felix Mallard and Maliq Johnson, delivering grounded performances.

Early responses focus on the film's intimate look at mental health and the way love and friendship are tested by anxiety. The script centers on self doubt, honesty, and connection, offering concrete scenes of courage. Audience rating sits around 7.3 out of 10 from 201 votes, without resorting to melodrama.

Though early in its run, the film has sparked conversations about how intrusive thoughts are portrayed and the balance of romance with mental health. Merced's performance grounds the story in lived experience rather than sentiment, and it is already fueling discussions about how women handle pressure and emotions on screen.

As of its release, there have been no announced major award nominations. The creative team is praised for a restrained approach to sensitive material, a choice that could influence future adaptations of literary coming of age stories, and this approach may gain recognition later in festivals or niche circuits worldwide.