Girl Asleep

'Girl Asleep' is a delightful coming of age dramedy that uses the medium of film in a creative and entertaining way. Less is more (or it should be in features, where directors are too often indulged) and the running time here is succinct; whilst exploring its themes and concerns. Recreating an era on film is never easy, especially on a budget, but Rosemary Myers does a great job as she and the screenwriter (and supporting actor) Matthew Whittet, adapt his stage play and bring some visceral and visual elements to the tale.

The protagonist here is a 14 year old played with smart enthusiasm and sturdiness by Bethany Whitmore (already a seasoned actor at aged 16!). Her Greta undergoes some quick rite of passage as the narrative propels her towards her next birthday and a reluctant participant in her own celebrations. With quirky parents, an apathetic older sister, and a geekily winning best pal played to perfection by Harrison Feldman, Greta has a new school and peer pressure to navigate as well as the looming birthday.

There is much to enjoy about 'Girl Asleep' with its retro first half; resplendent with late 70's furnishings, music, costumes and an altogether more innocent time. The film's shift in tone and style is not unexpected, with some early metaphysical and fantasy components flagging its intentions, but for some this may prove too wayward. There is ultimately a sweetness to this movie, without being saccharine or predictable. With a cast largely of teenagers and lesser known actors, the director wrangles the elements with a deft hand but not intrusively; allowing Matthew Whittet's story to be explored and Greta's turbulent coming of age to be presented in a distinctive style. I hope this movie finds its audience. This is an Australian film to rally for!

The first half of the film was wonderful (I'd give it 9 stars)! It was witty, artistic, imaginative, and delt with really world issues. The characters were fresh and complex, and their conflicts and choices were intriguing. However, halfway through it started to loose all of that, except some of the imaginative aspect, but in a style so unlike the rest of the film it's jarring.

"Girl Asleep" (2015 release from Australia; 77 min.) brings the story of Greta, who is almost 15 yrs. old. As the movie opens, we are informed that it is "First Day, New School" and we see Greta trying to fit in. She is approached by geeky Elliot, who takes an immediate liking to her. After school, we get to know Greta's family (her goofy dd, her controlling mom, and her rebellious older sister). When mom decides that Greta should have a big birthday party, Greta is mortified at first, but then gives in. The day of the birthday party arrives... To tell you more of the plot would spoil your viewing experience, you'll just have to see for yourself how it all plays out.

Couple of comments: this movie is unlike anything that I have seen in a long time. It's both a coming of age movie as it is a fantasy movie. How so? Because midway into the movie, the movie takes a left, then a right, and then another left and ends up going back-and-forth between the birthday party and Greta's dreams when she nods off during the party. Doesn't make sense to you? No worries, mate! Just go with the flow. There is a long scene during the party where Sylvester's "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" blasts away and the entire group is dancing in unison to the song. Perfect! (The movie is set sometime in the 70s, so this fits in nicely). There are some wonderful performances from this no-start cast, notably Bethany Whitmore in the role of Greta. I noticed in the end credits that the movie is based on a theater play. I can't even imagine what that must've been like, but the movie certainly didn't feel like a staged play. Bottom line: the movie rolls by in no time, and I enjoyed it quite a bit.

"Girl Asleep" opened this weekend without any pre-release fanfare or advertising at my local art-house theater here in Cincinnati. I really didn't know anything about the movie, and simply took a flyer on it. So glad I did. The Friday evening screening where I saw this at was attended so-so, which didn't surprise me, given the lack of marketing or buzz around this film. A darn shame, if you ask me. Sometimes it's nice to be surprised with a movie the likes of which you don't get to see very often. If you are in the mood for something very different that is charming, quirky and funny, I'd readily suggest you seek out this movie, be it in the theater, on Amazon Instant Video, or eventually on DVD/Blu-ray. "Girl Asleep" is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Greta is new in town. New school, new friends and she will be turning 15 soon! Some weird fantasies running through her teenage mind. She is confused about herself, not knowing how to get in touch with her peers. And few popular (and mean) school girls make pressure on her. As if that were not bad enough, her mother planned to organize a birthday party with Greta's new school mates...

Bethany Whitmore doing great job here as Greta. You can really feel with her. Unconventional fantasy story give you a thrill. Supporting characters are on the right place. Really good soundtrack with 70's feeling is really enjoyable.

This is an amazing, warm hearted, visually brilliant coming-of-age movie. Watch it!

A interesting, fun, awkward teen adventure that will take you on on adventure. Must see film for anyone who never quite fit in.

It has quirkiness, 1970s throw back, girl drama and most importantly dad jokes. Gretel and Elliott will have you cheering from your seats that is OK to just be yourself.

The film is perfectly pitched for teenagers or for anyone who was slightly left of field in high school. So just about everyone!

Great to see Australian Films making its mark up with the big budget releases.

I hope to see more of Whittet's plays adapted to the big screen.