The Toe Tactic. 2008. USA. Directed by Emily Hubley. With Jane Lynch, Kevin Corrigan, Daniel London. 84 min.
Mona Peek is a young woman engulfed by loss. Her father recently passed away, her wallet disappears, and she is isolated from those around her. Her life, and the lives of her neighbors, are manipulated by four capricious dogs playing a game of cards. Winsome newcomer Lily Rabe interacts with animated forms that push, pull, and caress the film’s flesh-and-blood cohabitants through a journey of renewal. A layered world of live-action and illustrated images, the unique kinetic flow of Hubley’s remarkable feature debut is enhanced by Yo La Tengo’s equally innovative score. Ray Hubley comments, “For this rich and moving multigenerational story of family connection and loss, Emily recruited an amazing cast…along with contributions from all three siblings and other family members, including son Max and niece Hillary. Faith and John would surely have approved of such feather-bedding.”