The Starling Girl

I grew up in a Christian home so I can relate to these characters here. Feelings wandering, conflicting when it comes to what's right and wrong. I have no doubts there will be Christians seeking everyone to avoid this near masterpiece of film. It struck all the right cords. It's a very impressive debut for this new director. I wish more first time filmmakers made films this great but they come few and far between. I can see this one becoming an awards contender perhaps if it doesn't stir up too much controversy but I doubt that will happen. This one is likely to remain a hidden gem but it deserves a watch at least once especially for the incredible performances all around, the music, the atmosphere and cinematography are all on point here. Not sure entirely what kept this from being a perfect film but it almost reaches that. All in all though this is definitely one of the years best so far and is worth seeking out for film lovers and those who struggle with beliefs in religion.

The plot in and of itself is very simple and has been done many times. Young girl, oppressed - finds her identity through trials and tribulations. It's really a story as old as time itself, so that's not the real focus of this film. The acting and character development is what to focus on while watching.

The setting is mostly outdoor rural Kentucky, within a very strict Christian fundamentalist community, which I found unique and interesting. The focus of the film is the subtle changes in the young girl main protagonist. It's almost like watching a slow motion train wreck, for her and the immature pastor.

Overall it's a slow burn, hard to really review. I just enjoyed the overall ambience and acting. Everything else for me I could take or leave it, but it was entertaining. 5.9/10.

Taking place in beautiful green Kentucky in a Christian fundamentalist community The Starling Girl pulls you in from the jump. It is nothing like what you might expect. Eliza Scanlan and Lewis Pullman are the the stars in first time writer/director Laurel Pamet's first feature film and it is a brilliant debut. A coming of age film, that becomes a tight psychological thriller, that becomes a meditation on life and God and a woman's place in the world. This film hits all the marks from costumes and production design, to stunning cinematography, to great music and masterful editing. There is nothing about this film that is ordinary or mundane. This is a a do not miss movie that will surely become a classic.

I always suspect in a movie about conservative Christians they are going to be portrayed as small-minded and hypocritical, and that their faith is a lie. And my expectations were not entirely dashed in this film. But there's enough sensitivity and nuance here that I felt like there were sufficient characters, including the lead, who were honestly wrestling with their faith, and the temptations of the secular world. The plot, if somewhat predictable, kept this viewer interested,. The lead was a good combination of the strong, young adult, and the childhood she was just leaving. I certainly recommend watching it at the free Kanopy service.

This movie broke me. Maybe you need to personally relate to the content, but the way in which the relationship between Jem and Own is crafted is nuanced and relatable. The trauma that comes with religious upbringing is powerfully displayed in this movie. In the hands of the screenwriter, director and actors it is deftly dealt with, without forcing an agenda down your throat one way or the other. Pullman and Scanlen achieve the necessary chemistry that you're wholly along for the journey and seem to understand both sides, even if there is a clear villain in this tale. This movie had me thinking about it nonstop for a week now...don't know what my entire conclusion is yet, but I'm so glad it was made.