plot
Meera (Preeti Panigrahi) is a 17 year old girl. Apart from being a class topper, he is also a school prefect. She lives with her protective mother Anila (Kani Kasruti) and her father who comes around occasionally. Meera begins to develop feelings for a new member in the astrology class named Srinivas (Kesav Binoy Kiran). He starts awakening sexual desires for the first time. When Meera’s mother sees Meera talking on the phone with Shree, she calls her and makes it clear that they both can just remain friends, nothing more. Shri and Meera continue to pursue each other romantically in secret. Sree starts visiting Meera’s house more often, as he develops a comfortable and friendly relationship with Meera’s mother. Meera suddenly starts feeling that Shri is paying more attention to her mother than her. The rest of the story focuses on the changes Meera experiences in her life after adolescence.
Girls will be the ones who work for girls.
The strength of Girls Will Be Girls lies in its subtlety and slow, raw depiction of adolescence. This pace adds a warm, cozy feel to the film, making the audience feel deeply connected to Mira’s world. The layered narrative and depth of character performances are remarkable.
The film is full of remarkably shot scenes that force you to appreciate the foresight of the director. There is a scene where Meera tries to kiss Sree passionately under the shower, mistaking his hand for her lips (this is before they pursue a romantic relationship); Preeti Panigrahi has played that scene very well. Then there is a scene focusing on Meera and Shree’s fingers. Mira’s fingers say more than words and you have to see it to believe it. There is also a scene where Meera records an audio, in which she expresses her love and affection towards Shri. That sequence tries to highlight how ignorant Meera is when it comes to what she feels. Such deft handling of the subject matter through the film makes Girls Will Be Girls a fascinating watch.
What won’t work for girls will be girls
The pacing of the film sometimes feels showy rather than purposeful, potentially alienating viewers who prefer a more dynamic narrative flow. The relationship dynamics between Meera and her mother seem disjointed at the end of the film, especially given Anila’s restrictive behavior towards Meera. The subplot involving a teacher endorsing the boys’ misbehavior at school and blaming the girls for their attire feels somewhat forced. The climax, which involves a confrontation with the boys, is particularly disturbing. It’s melodramatic and poorly executed, disrupting the film’s otherwise delicate balance. Leaving aside the above issues, Girls Will Be Girls remains a touching film about a girl trying to move on with her life after her sexual awakening.
Watch the Girls Will Be Girls Trailer
Performance in Girls Will Be Girls
Preeti Panigrahi as Meera gives an extraordinary performance, capturing the nuances of teenage confusion and desire with authenticity. Kani Kashruti as Anila deeply portrays the complexities of a protective mother who craves attention. Kesav Binoy Kiran’s portrayal of Shri is equally compelling, providing a charming and believable counterpart to Meera. The chemistry between the lead trio is fantastic, which makes the film much better. The supporting cast also contribute effectively, ensuring that each character feels authentic.
Girls will have the final say
Girls Will Be Girls is a film that, despite its flaws, offers a poignant exploration of adolescence and identity. It boasts many stunningly shot scenes, well-handled conflicts and excellent performances.
You can watch Girls Will Be Girls now streaming on Prime Video.
Also read: Girls Will Be Girls OTT release: When and where to watch Richa Chadha-Ali Fazal’s award-winning film
