Flora & Ulysses 2021

In the vibrant backdrop of Vancouver’s suburbs, the story unfolds through the lens of Flora Belle Buckman, a young girl with a penchant for skepticism and comic books. Following her parents’ recent divorce, Flora’s life takes an unexpected turn when a neighbor’s errant act—accidentally running over a squirrel with a vacuum cleaner, a birthday gift for his wife—sets off a whimsical chain of events. This mishap bestows the squirrel with remarkable abilities, granting him the power to understand human emotions and intellect. Captivated by this transformation, Flora names the squirrel Ulysses to commemorate the chaotic moment.

As Ulysses unveils his extraordinary talents, Flora urges him to apply these gifts for good, hoping he might become a force of justice or even a source of poetic inspiration. To her astonishment, Ulysses showcases a flair for poetry using her mother’s typewriter, weaving words that resonate with depth and clarity.

However, tensions rise between Flora and her mother, leading to a heated argument where Flora’s feelings of inadequacy surface, convincing her that her mother no longer cares for her. Hurt and disillusioned, she decides she wants to live with her father. In response, Ulysses crafts a heartfelt poem that encapsulates the underlying emotions of their intertwined lives, revealing the complexities of their relationships.

In a bold act of independence, Ulysses flees from Flora’s mother, leaving behind a note infused with emotion. Driven by love and a desire to reunite with her newfound friend, Flora gathers a group of allies to track down her beloved squirrel. Their adventure leads them to her father’s apartment, where Flora’s previously guarded demeanor begins to crumble. She ultimately comes to a profound realization: her mother’s love for her is sincere and unwavering. This revelation sets in motion a significant transformation in Flora’s life, shaping her outlook on family and relationships for years to come.