Wildcat is a biographical drama film that follows the life of renowned American writer Flannery O'Connor. Set in 1950, the story revolves around Flannery's visit to her mother Regina in Georgia, where she receives a devastating diagnosis of lupus at the young age of twenty-four.
Flannery's life has already been shaped by tragedy, as her father succumbed to the same disease when she was a child. Determined to establish herself as a great writer and grappling with her own mortality, this diagnosis becomes a catalyst for Flannery's intense exploration of faith and belief.
As Flannery struggles with her illness, she also confronts profound questions regarding God and art. She ponders whether scandalous or provocative artwork can still serve God's purpose and what role suffering plays in achieving greatness. These philosophical inquiries send her imagination into overdrive, sparking a feverish exploration of her beliefs.
Throughout the movie, viewers witness Flannery's relentless pursuit to leave behind a lasting legacy through her writing. With themes like illness as both an obstacle and potentially transformative experience, Wildcat delves into the complex relationship between creativity, spirituality, suffering, and personal growth.
The film offers an intimate portrayal of Flannery O'Connor's journey as both an artist and an individual facing adversity. It showcases how adversities can shape one's perspective on life while delving into larger existential questions about artistry and religion during a tumultuous period in American history.