Girls Will Be Girls Review: Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha, celebrated for their acting prowess, have now donned the producer's hat, delivering a cinematic gem with their debut production. Known for their penchant for meaningful content, they’ve chosen to go "back to basics," creating a film that strikes a chord with its simplicity and authenticity. The film has already garnered acclaim at various film festivals and is now streaming on Amazon Prime.
Girls Will Be Girls plot
The story revolves around Meera (Preeti Panigrahi), a disciplined head prefect at her school. Enter Sri (Keshav Binoy), a foreign exchange student, who becomes the object of Meera's affection. However, Meera's mother, Anila (Kani Kusruti), is stern and wants her daughter to focus solely on academics. The strained mother-daughter relationship is a central theme, as Anila eventually befriends Sri. What unfolds is a tender tale of teenage romance intertwined with familial bonds. The film beautifully portrays how relationships evolve and heal, especially between Meera and her mother.
Why Girls Will Be Girl works
This movie is a refreshing throwback to the 90s—a time without smartphones, where romance blossomed through stolen glances and missed calls. Its simplicity is its strength. The narrative refrains from unnecessary drama, focusing instead on authentic emotions that resonate universally. Whether you grew up in that era or not, the film’s relatability is its magic. Its characters feel genuine, and their stories could easily mirror your own or someone you know.
The pacing is just right, allowing the audience to soak in every emotion. While the teenage romance includes a few bold scenes, they are tastefully executed and integral to the story. The film also emphasises the importance of parents befriending their children during their teenage years to foster trust and understanding.
Performances
The film’s strongest suit is its performances. Kani Kusruti is phenomenal as Anila, embodying the complexities of a strict yet vulnerable mother. Her portrayal is so relatable that it might remind you of your own teenage years and interactions with your mother. Preeti Panigrahi shines as Meera, capturing the innocence and curiosity of a teenager with remarkable ease. Despite being a newcomer, she delivers a performance that feels natural and effortless.
Keshav Binoy Kiran impresses as Sri, the charming new kid in school who wins hearts with his words and demeanour. His performance feels authentic, reminiscent of the charismatic students we all encountered in school.
Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha’s faith in their cast has truly paid off, as each actor delivers an exceptional performance.
Direction and writing
The real star of this film is writer-director Suchi Talati. Her storytelling is both heartfelt and poignant, capturing the essence of teenage romance and familial relationships with finesse. Talati’s direction ensures that every scene feels organic and impactful, making the film an immersive experience. Her ability to handle delicate themes with sensitivity and grace is commendable.
Verdict
This film is a must-watch for its heartfelt storytelling. Films like these should be watched so that producers like Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha make more such gems. Don’t miss this film—it’s a treat for the heart and soul.