The much-anticipated film Girls Will Be Girls, directed by Shuchi Talati, is now available in Hindi, Malayalam, and English on Amazon Prime Video.
This Indo-French production has received high praise during its festival run, including recognition at Sundance 2024.
About Girls Will Be Girls
Set in a Himalayan boarding school, the story revolves around Mira, a 16-year-old head prefect played by debutante Preeti Panigrahi. It also revolves around her evolving relationship with her strict yet enigmatic mother, Anila (Kani Kusruti).
Mira navigates the complexities of adolescence, first love, and societal expectations while grappling with her mother’s dominating presence.
The arrival of a charming new student, Srinivas (Kesav Binoy Kiron), adds layers of tension as Mira competes with her mother for his attention.
The film delves into themes of sexism, identity, and silent battles women face in conservative societies. Talati’s nuanced storytelling captures these struggles through subtle yet powerful moments, making it more than just a coming-of-age tale.
to a story that has rules & rebellion at the heart of it 💙🔥#GirlsWillBeGirlsOnPrime, watch now https://t.co/G7MJ3vUVP7 pic.twitter.com/dPCzw8zplx
— prime video IN (@PrimeVideoIN) December 17, 2024
Critics’ Reactions
Critics praise Girls Will Be Girls for its layered narrative and stellar performances.
– Indian Express called it “one of the best films of the year,” highlighting Talati’s precise filmmaking and Panigrahi’s revelatory performance.
– NDTV described it as “spellbindingly granular and resonantly universal,” applauding its sharp observation of societal restrictions on women.
– While some reviewers noted pacing issues and occasional melodrama, most agreed that the film’s emotional depth and character dynamics make it a must-watch.
Should You Watch It?
If you enjoy thought-provoking dramas with strong performances and intricate character studies, Girls Will Be Girls is worth your time.
The film offers a raw portrayal of teenage life, maternal relationships, and societal norms, all wrapped in Talati’s careful direction. Preeti Panigrahi’s debut performance is particularly noteworthy, capturing the vulnerability and defiance of a teenager coming into her own.
Have you watched it yet? What are your thoughts on this bold take on growing up?