
Kelly & Cal
2014

Representation Score
Fair
2015
Director
Mark Monheim
Runtime
104 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetNew Showbiz Analysis
About a Girl is a character-driven film that explores moral relativism and the breakdown of traditional family structures. It steers clear of the usual optimistic coming-of-age clichés, opting instead for a cynical, anti-establishment perspective. The film effectively challenges conventional social norms through its protagonist's interests and family dynamics. It presents fractured domestic structures and unconventional life paths, disrupting the stability of the traditional nuclear family. However, the film's diversity is limited by a lack of visible representation regarding race and LGBTQ+ identities. Additionally, while it touches on mental health, the depth of its portrayal of neurodivergence remains uncertain.
Category Breakdown
The film does not include any visible LGBTQ+ characters or same-sex relationships. There are no direct critiques of the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender or assumptions about sexual orientation.
The story focuses on a female protagonist in a world where traditional male roles are absent. Her mother's unconventional relationship challenges the typical nuclear family structure.
There is no information available about the racial or ethnic makeup of the cast or setting. Therefore, it is impossible to assess the film’s handling of racial issues.
The narrative rejects mainstream cultural optimism by embracing existential nihilism and grunge culture. It challenges traditional social norms through themes of family dysfunction and unconventional career paths.
The protagonist's profound depression introduces psychological themes into the narrative. However, it is unclear whether this mental health struggle is portrayed with ability to act or used merely as a plot device.
Present on Screen
Limited or Absent
Official Synopsis
Charleen is 15, melodramatic, mega depressed, and Kurt Cobain’s biggest fan. Her best friend Isa is getting really boring, her dad is out of the picture, and her mom has hooked up with her biology teacher. Even though she has an apprenticeship preparing bodies for funerals, which is pretty cool, her musical idols are all dead. It’s about time Charleen was, too.

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