"The Starling Girl," a 2023 coming-of-age drama, delves into the complex world of a 17-year-old girl, Jem Starling (Eliza Scanlen), growing up in a fundamentalist Christian community in Kentucky. Written and directed by Laurel Parmet, the film expertly navigates themes of faith, family, and self-discovery, providing a nuanced and captivating portrayal of a vulnerable teenager finding herself amidst a suffocating environment of judgment and expectations.
Jem's life takes a tumultuous turn as she grapples with family struggles. Her father (Jimmi Simpson) is dealing with a depressive episode after the death of a former bandmate, and her mother (Wrenn Schmidt) urges her to ignore their family's problems and maintain appearances. Meanwhile, Jem begins a courtship with Ben (Austin Abrams), but her attention soon shifts to his older brother, Owen (Lewis Pullman), who returns from missionary work with his wife Misty (Jessamine Burgum). As Jem explores her feelings for Owen, she confronts the clash between her desires and the strict beliefs imposed by her community.
At the heart of "The Starling Girl" is Eliza Scanlen's outstanding performance as Jem. Scanlen skillfully portrays the teenager's frustration with being constantly judged and controlled, her rebellious acts of defiance, and her naivety in seeking validation from her youth pastor. As Jem becomes infatuated with Owen, the seductive dynamics of their relationship are subtly depicted, drawing the audience into Jem's emotional journey. Scanlen brings depth and authenticity to Jem's fall from grace, making her inner conflict palpable and relatable.
Parmet's direction immerses the audience in Jem's world, skillfully capturing the tension and heartbreak in her relationships with her parents. The film's rich and detailed portrayal of growing up in a religious community resonates with authenticity, while the cinematography by Brian Lannin beautifully captures the rural setting's natural beauty.
"The Starling Girl" stands out for its specificity in exploring Jem's experiences while remaining accessible to viewers who haven't shared similar backgrounds. Parmet's collaboration with Scanlen creates a compelling narrative that elicits empathy and support for Jem's journey of self-discovery. As Jem navigates the conflicts between her desires and the community's expectations, the audience roots for her to find freedom and acceptance in being true to herself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "The Starling Girl" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged coming-of-age drama, elevated by Eliza Scanlen's remarkable performance. Parmet's direction, along with the film's rich storytelling and cinematography, offers a captivating and engrossing viewing experience, leaving audiences invested in Jem's quest for self-acceptance and understanding.
The Starling Girl (2023) - info
- Release date: January 21, 2023
- Genre: Drama
- Director: Laurel Parmet
- Writer: Laurel Parmet
- Stars: Eliza Scanlen, Lewis Pullman, Jimmi Simpson