Seven Politically Incorrect Female Coming-of-Age Films

Maybe you're fabulously cynical. Perhaps you're one of those women with a huge aversion to the saccharine energy of chick flicks. The beauty of film is that it satisfies even the strangest cinematic palates. Coming-of-age films are typically soaked in nostalgia-- public service announcements played out by 20-something actors who happen to appeal to a teen crowd. But there are other movies that strike an unnerving chord-ones that reveal not only the awkward aspects of becoming a woman-but dangerous ones as well.

The Virgin Suicides (1999)

The horror that lies at the root of this story is beautifully cloaked in great storytelling, solid actors, and dreamy cinematography. Ironically, the suicides of five sisters in this narrative directed by Sofia Coppola seem to be the "backdrop" for the emotional effect it has on both the viewers-and the other characters in the movie. Kirsten Dunst is clearly the standout actress in the bunch, setting the tone for the plot's whimsical beauty and delicate sense of dread. The Virgin Suicides gives new meaning to the phrase "Girl, Interrupted."

Palindromes (2004)

You'll need to unbolt the manner in which you watch films to capture the essence of Palindromes-a film that casts eight different actors of varying races and ages for one role. Aviva, the film's 13 year-old main character goes through a lot more than the average adolescent, including underaged sex, an abortion, infertility, and an encounter with a Christian fundamentalist hitman. If you're wondering how all these elements can fit into one dramedy, pop this into your DVD player and see for yourself.

Hounddog (2007)

There was much ado about this controversial 2007 film starring Dakota Fanning. Most of the film is quite tame (albeit, a tad contrived)-save for the infamous rape scene right before an Elvis concert. Dakota plays the role of Lewellen, a bright 12 year-old living in the 1950's American South. The movie evokes powerful emotions from the sensitive viewer. Watch this only if you've got a strong stomach and a penchant for creative poignant stories.

Little Darlings (1980)

Pop open the time capsule from 1980 and you'll find this hidden treasure. Little Darlings stars a ruddy, yet robust Tatum O'Neal. Kristy McNichol takes on the role of her cohort; the two chart out how they plan to lose their virginity at summer camp. The "little darlings" discover all the intricacies involved in falling in love and making certain physical transitions. Despite this film's comedic value, it possesses a tender aspect that is lost on many modern coming-of-age films featuring young girls.

An American Crime (2007)

Featuring a darker aspect to growing up, this period film follows the true story of Sylvia Likens-a 15 year-old girl who was tortured and murdered in 1965. Like many "true story" accounts brought to film, this movie takes a few liberties in its retelling. But the dark cinematography and extreme sense of desperation therein make for interesting viewing. Sylvia (played by Ellen Page) emerges into girlhood as any normal young woman, but has any lovely experiences snatched violently away from her by a bitter, depraved woman and her disturbed children.

Thirteen (2003)

Before actress Evan Rachel Wood was making goo-goo eyes at goth rocker, Marilyn Manson, she starred as a precocious adolescent in Thirteen. The movie presents a frighteningly accurate portrayal of the wilder side of modern puberty. Written by the movie's co-star, Nikki Reed, Thirteen is a merry-go-round ride of drugs, "shopping", and overripe hormones. Pay close attention and you'll find that underneath the entertaining storyline are several messages about the state of teen pop culture.

Fat Girl (2001)

If you have the patience for introspective foreign films, you will love Fat Girl, one of director Catherine Breillat's intelligent coming-of-age movies. This French film delves quite explicitly into the emotions connected to growing up female. But in addition to that, Breillat sinks her teeth into the stereotypes of the adolescent self-image. You'll definitely need to be mentally prepared to watch Fat Girl, as this movie presents rather graphic subject matter to get her point across.

SOURCES:

www.imdb.com
www.netflix.com
www.trutv.com