PLOT
Set in the 1990s at a strict boarding school in the Himalayan foothills, Girls Will Be Girls delves into the stifling effects of patriarchal norms on women’s lives and desires. The story centers on Mira (Preeti Panigrahi), a disciplined and high-achieving student whose orderly world is disrupted by the arrival of Sri (Kesav Binoy Kiron), a charming and mischievous new transfer student. As Mira navigates her growing attraction to Sri, the narrative takes an unexpected turn when her mother, Anila (Kani Kusruti), becomes part of the story. Living nearby to oversee Mira’s academic progress, Anila struggles with her own social and romantic frustrations, leading her to compete for Sri’s attention. This layered dynamic reveals not only the personal consequences of repressive societal rules but also how these structures influence women’s relationships and self-perception across generations.
HIGHLIGHTS
Girls Will Be Girls is a poignant psychological drama that delves deep into the layered complexities of a mother-daughter relationship in a patriarchal society. One of the most striking aspects of the film is its ability to capture the subtleties of repression and rebellion. Mira’s internal journey, as she explores her suppressed desires, is intricately juxtaposed with her mother Anila’s struggles with her own unresolved frustrations. The film’s setting—a boarding school in the serene yet isolating Himalayan foothills—serves as a metaphor for the emotional suffocation the characters experience.
DRAWBACKS
While the film excels in its emotional depth and thematic focus, its pacing might prove to be a challenge for some viewers. The narrative adopts a deliberate, slow-burn approach, which, while effective in building tension and introspection, occasionally drags in the second half. Certain moments feel overly extended, testing the patience of those accustomed to a faster narrative rhythm. Additionally, the film’s heavy focus on Mira and Anila’s dynamic leaves little room for supporting characters to develop. While this tight lens strengthens the main story, it also limits the scope of the narrative, leaving other potentially interesting subplots underexplored. These minor shortcomings, however, do not take away from the film’s overall impact.
PERFORMANCES
The performances in Girls Will Be Girls are its beating heart. Preeti Panigrahi delivers a magnetic performance as Mira, masterfully portraying the journey of a young woman torn between societal expectations and her awakening individuality. She captures every nuance of Mira’s character, from her moments of quiet rebellion to her raw vulnerability, making her both relatable and compelling. Kani Kusruti is equally captivating as Anila, Mira’s mother. Her portrayal is layered, oscillating between control and yearning, as she struggles with her own unfulfilled desires while attempting to shape Mira’s life. Kani’s performance brings a level of gravitas to the role, making Anila both a product of societal repression and a perpetrator of it. Kesav Binoy Kiron as Sri, the sly and charming transfer student, adds depth and charisma to his role, becoming the catalyst for both Mira’s and Anila’s self-discovery. The chemistry between the actors is natural and contributes significantly to the emotional resonance of the story.
TECHNICAL ASPECTS
Shuchi Talati’s direction shines in its ability to blend the personal and the political, giving equal weight to the characters’ individual struggles and the societal structures that shape their lives. The film bravely tackles the themes of female sexuality and generational trauma, making the audience reflect on how societal expectations influence women’s autonomy and relationships. The film’s technical brilliance enhances its narrative depth. Cinematographer Jih-E Peng’s stunning visuals beautifully capture the contrasting elements of the story. The vast Himalayan landscapes serve as a metaphor for freedom and longing, while the claustrophobic interiors of the boarding school and Anila’s home reflect the confinement of the characters’ lives.
The production design authentically recreates the 1990s setting, with every detail, from the uniforms to the decor, immersing the audience in the time period. The musical score by Pierre Oberkampf and Sneha Khanwalkar is another standout aspect, subtly underscoring the emotional highs and lows of the characters’ journeys without ever overwhelming the narrative.
However, the editing could have been slightly tighter in certain parts of the film, especially in the middle section, where the pacing issues become more evident. Despite this, the technical aspects overall contribute significantly to the film’s immersive experience.
VERDICT
Girls Will Be Girls is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged exploration of how patriarchal norms stifle women’s sexuality and autonomy. With its searing examination of generational trauma and repression, the film offers a unique perspective on themes often overlooked in mainstream cinema. Shuchi Talati’s directorial debut is marked by a sharp focus on emotional authenticity, supported by powerful performances from Preeti Panigrahi and Kani Kusruti. The film’s ability to intertwine personal struggles with broader societal commentary makes it a significant addition to contemporary Indian cinema.
While its pacing may not appeal to all viewers, the film’s psychological depth, stunning visuals, and atmospheric storytelling make it a rewarding experience. Girls Will Be Girls is a must-watch for those seeking a nuanced and courageous portrayal of women’s lives and desires in a repressive world.
DIRECTED BY: Shuchi Talati
PRODUCED BY: Pushing Buttons Studio, Dolce Vita Films, Crawling Angle Films by Richa Chadha, Claire Chassagne and Shuchi Talati with Ali Fazal as the executive producer.
CAST: Preeti Panigrahi Kesav Binoy Kironand Kani Kusruti
STREAMING ON: Prime Video
RATING: 4/5
