Girls Will Be Girls Review: A Delicate Tale of Growth, Struggle and Connection
Key Takeaways:
- Girls Will Be Girls delves deeply into the intricate and often turbulent mother-daughter relationship, set against the challenges of adolescence.
- Shuchi Talati crafts a nuanced, non-preachy exploration of a young girl’s coming-of-age, highlighting themes of puberty, rebellion, and empathy.
- The performances of Preeti Panigrahi, Kani Kusruti, and Kesav Binoy Kiron shine, backed by Jih-E Peng’s evocative cinematography.
In the clutter of Indian cinema, where teenage tales are either sanitized or exaggerated, Girls Will Be Girls stands as a refreshing exception. Directed by Shuchi Talati, this film is not just a narrative about adolescence but an intimate exploration of how relationships, self-discovery, and empathy shape us. Through the journey of Mira, an 18-year-old navigating her newfound responsibilities and desires, the film offers an unvarnished portrayal of growth and transformation.
The Plot: A Story of Love, Rebellion, and Understanding
Set in the serene yet cloistered environment of a boarding school in Himachal Pradesh, the story revolves around Mira (Preeti Panigrahi), a studious and conscientious student recently elected as Head Prefect. Mira’s world is a mix of academic expectations and personal turmoil, particularly with her overbearing mother, Anila (Kani Kusruti), who was once a student at the same school.
The tension between Mira and Anila forms the core of the film. Mira’s newfound responsibilities at school, coupled with her blossoming relationship with fellow student Sri (Kesav Binoy Kiron), act as catalysts for her personal awakening. These elements bring to the surface long-buried emotions, misunderstandings, and unspoken parallels between mother and daughter.
Themes: A Window into Puberty and Empathy
The film beautifully tackles themes often glossed over in Indian cinema. Puberty, desire, and rebellion are portrayed without unnecessary dramatization or explicit scenes. Instead, Talati’s storytelling relies on subtlety and authenticity.
- The Struggles of Adolescence: Mira’s journey mirrors the internal chaos of adolescence, where she grapples with burgeoning desires and her changing relationship with authority.
- Complex Relationships: Anila’s character is particularly compelling, painted in shades of grey. Her protectiveness often borders on manipulation, but her ultimate support for Mira showcases her depth.
- Empathy and Understanding: By the film’s end, Mira learns to view her mother with newfound empathy, realizing the shared struggles that bond them.
Performances: Stellar Portrayals of Complex Characters
Preeti Panigrahi delivers a breakout performance as Mira. Her ability to convey a range of emotions curiosity, defiance, and tenderness adds authenticity to her character.
Kani Kusruti as Anila is a revelation. Her portrayal of a mother torn between control and vulnerability is both nuanced and relatable. Kesav Binoy Kiron as Sri brings charm and maturity, serving as the perfect foil to Mira’s evolving emotions.
Cinematic Craft: Visual Storytelling at Its Best
Jih-E Peng’s cinematography elevates the film, using visuals to amplify the characters’ inner turmoil. The use of negative space and deep focus shots conveys the emotional distance and tension between Mira and Anila. Static frames capture the subtle power dynamics and shifting relationships, creating a mood that lingers long after the credits roll.
The intimate setting of the boarding school becomes a character in itself, reflecting both the restrictions and the hidden freedoms that shape Mira’s journey.
A Non-Preachy Approach to Feminism
While the film touches on themes of patriarchy and societal expectations, it avoids being overtly preachy. For instance, moments like the teacher enforcing strict dress codes subtly highlight ingrained sexism, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions.
Missed Opportunities: A Slightly Underdeveloped Subplot
One area where the film falters slightly is in its depiction of Mira’s absentee father (Jitin Gulati). His role, while significant, feels underexplored, leaving a gap in the otherwise tightly woven narrative.
The Director’s Vision: Shuchi Talati’s Bold Debut
Shuchi Talati’s insider knowledge of boarding school life lends authenticity to the film’s setting and characters. Her decision to focus on female perspectives both Mira’s and Anila’s adds depth to the narrative, making it relatable across generations.
The Bigger Picture: Breaking Bollywood Stereotypes
Indian cinema has often struggled with authentic portrayals of teenage life. Films oscillate between infantilizing teenagers or fetishizing their experiences. Girls Will Be Girls breaks this mold by presenting a raw, honest look at adolescence, free from clichés.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch Drama
Girls Will Be Girls is more than just a coming-of-age story it’s a meditation on growth, understanding, and the complexities of relationships. The film’s nuanced storytelling, strong performances, and evocative visuals make it a standout in contemporary Indian cinema.
FAQ
1. What makes Girls Will Be Girls different from other coming-of-age films?
The film avoids clichés and presents a raw, authentic portrayal of adolescence, focusing on the nuanced relationship between a mother and daughter.
2. Is the film suitable for all age groups?
While the themes of puberty and desire are handled delicately, the film is best suited for mature audiences who can appreciate its subtleties.
3. Who are the standout performers in the film?
Preeti Panigrahi and Kani Kusruti deliver exceptional performances as Mira and Anila, respectively, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters.
4. What themes does the film explore?
The film explores themes of puberty, desire, rebellion, mother-daughter dynamics, and empathy, offering a fresh perspective on growing up.
5. Why is the cinematography of Girls Will Be Girls praised?
Jih-E Peng’s cinematography uses visual storytelling to enhance the film’s emotional depth, employing techniques like negative space and deep focus to reflect character dynamics.
