Chloë Grace Moretz’s role in the film Hick marked a significant milestone in her development as a young actor. At just 13 years old, Moretz took on the challenging role of Luli McMullen, a troubled teenager from rural Nebraska who embarks on a dangerous journey toward Las Vegas. Though Hick received mixed to negative reviews, the performance showcased her willingness to tackle complex, uncomfortable material early in her career. Understanding the context of the film, the character, and Moretz’s performance offers insight into how she evolved into one of Hollywood’s notable young talents.
Overview of Hick
Hick is a 2011 American coming-of-age drama directed by Derick Martini, based on Andrea Portes’ 2007 novel. The story centers on Luli McMullen (Moretz), who runs away from her alcoholic, neglectful parents. Armed with a gun and a sketchpad of dreams, she sets out west and encounters a series of troubling figures Glenda (Blake Lively), a self-serving drifter, and Eddie (Eddie Redmayne), a charming but morally ambiguous cowboy. Along the way, Luli navigates betrayal, danger, and self-discovery. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2011 and received a limited theatrical release in May 2012.
Luli McMullen: A Complex Character
Luli is portrayed as rebellious, emotionally raw, and uncertain about her place in the world. Her character is marked by trauma her strained relationship with her parents and a sense that she was destined for something more glamorous. Yet these traits are wrapped in vulnerability and youthful impulsiveness. As she interacts with Lively’s Glenda and Redmayne’s Eddie, Luli vacillates between trust and self-preservation. Moretz’s portrayal brings both strength and fragility, allowing audiences to feel both sympathy and discomfort for her journey.
Thematic Layers
- Coming of age in a harsh environment.
- Betrayal and redemption through interpersonal relationships.
- The tension between idealism and survival.
These themes shape Luli’s arc and offer clues into how Moretz handled the role’s emotional weight.
Chloë Grace Moretz’s Performance
At an age where most actors take on lighter roles, Moretz leapt into Hick’s darker narrative. Her work displays a maturity beyond her years she balanced Luli’s rebellious impulsiveness with emotional pain and grounded physical behavior. Despite criticism of the script, reviewers noted Moretz’s dedication to the character’s depth. She immersed herself in Luli’s voice and perspective, navigating moments of awkward narration, youthfully edgy dialogue, and intense interpersonal scenes.
Even in harsh reviews of the film, Moretz’s performance was often highlighted as one of the steadier aspects. Critics pointed out how she shouldered the discomfort of the character’s choices, embodying a teenager who experiences shame, desire, fear, and survival instinct in equal measure.
Critical Reception of Hick
Though the film attracted criticism for its tone and perceived misuse of a teenage protagonist, more than its fictional narrative construction, audience responses were polarized. On Rotten Tomatoes, Hick holds a low approval rating 5% from critics, indicating generally unfavorable reviews.
Reviews described the film as uneven and tonally confused. Some critics argued it sexualized Luli while failing to offer coherent motivation. Despite these concerns, Moretz’s portrayal stood out: she delivered the emotional nuances of a conflicted teenager caught between vulnerability and bravado.
Importance in Moretz’s Career
Hick represented a departure from Moretz’s earlier roles in family-friendly or superhero films. Before Hick, she had starred as Hit-Girl in Kick-Ass (2010) and Abby in Let Me In (2010). In contrast, Luli McMullen was a far darker and emotionally demanding character. Moretz took risks by choosing Hick, signaling her willingness to explore complex and controversial material at a young age.
This film proved Moretz’s range and commitment to serious acting. It set the stage for later roles in dramatic films such as If I Stay and The Miseducation of Cameron Post, where emotional realism continued to define her craft.
Cast and Production Highlights
- Directed by Derick Martini, adapted from Andrea Portes’ novel.
- Notable co-stars include Blake Lively, Eddie Redmayne, Juliette Lewis, Alec Baldwin, Rory Culkin, and Ray McKinnon.
- Filming locations included various towns in North Carolina, reflecting the rural American setting of the screenplay.
Amid controversy over its content involving a teenage lead, the film nonetheless united strong talent and an ambitious narrative whether or not it succeeded in fully delivering on those ambitions.
Legacy and Retrospective
Years after its release, Hick remains a controversial entry in Moretz’s filmography. The film is often referenced in discussions about problematic portrayals of young characters or the boundaries of consent and cinematic responsibility. Yet, from an acting standpoint, it remains part of the arc that established Moretz’s credibility as a serious performer.
While the film hasn’t aged comfortably for all viewers, Moretz has continued to evolve as an actress taking on roles that often explore identity, autonomy, and emotional complexity. Hick stands as an early, stark contrast to her later, more widely praised performances.
Film Themes and Audience Appeal
Although Hick is bleak in tone, it resonates with viewers interested in gritty coming-of-age tales. The film addresses themes such as teenage escapism, survival against adversity, and self-realization through hardship. Audiences who value character-driven drama may revisit Hick as an example of risky storytelling and young talent facing complex material head-on.
Why Fans Still Discuss Hick
- As part of Moretz’s early career evolution, the film represents an edgy turning point.
- It remains a controversial work prompting conversation about how filmmakers portray minors in risky situations.
- Its ensemble cast offers cinematic value even apart from the central story.
Hick may not be the most widely celebrated chapter in Chloë Grace Moretz’s career, but it is undeniably pivotal. Playing Luli McMullen allowed her to stretch into emotionally complex territory at a young age. Despite critical backlash towards the film, Moretz’s performance signaled her courage and depth as an actor. Hick introduced early evidence of her willingness to tackle difficult roles, paving the way for her later, critically acclaimed work. For those exploring Moretz’s filmography, Hick offers a revealing glimpse into the origins of a determined and multifaceted performer.
: