Girl Picture

This was nothing short of f'ing smart and adorable. In a sea of generic movies on a Sunday night, so glad I found this gem of a film. Well written, acted, and shot. The ups and downs of our sometimes broken selves and discovering who we are and who we know we can become. Always evolving and relatable at any age. P.s. "Swamp soccer"? Is that a thing? I hope so.

The Finnish feature is subtle and immersive and well worth the watch despite a couple third act twists that felt wedged in. Hubby and wife were of the same mind in this three person coming of age drama which often rings authentic. The movie gets off track when it becomes about figure skating more than the story. That didn't work for either one of us. It was emotional without tears, but the ending was too sudden considering what had happened too quickly earlier. Funny in a way too few films of this genre are. It should evoke memories for those a touch older and should resonate with teen viewers a well! Hubby: 6.8/Wife 7.2: Average 7/10

SMOOTHIE FINISH A rather frank Finish feature of girls deciphering hormonal urges as they mature into adulthood. The matter of fact sex talk is blunt, refreshing, insightful and often funny, as director Alli Haapasalo avoids the sensationalistic and exploitative Hollywood pratfalls of bedroom romps. These are kids, experimenting, exploring, learning, fumbling, growing and most importantly, discussing. A talkie, not a humpy. Mimmi and Ronkko swap sex tales whilst serving up ridiculously named smoothies ("It Takes Two To Mango") at the local food court, when clique preppie figure skater Emma disrupts their world. The punky, cynical and rebellious Mimmi (Aamu Milonoff) argues with, then falls for the forbidden fruit, and we have story. A story that feels natural, flows true, views like a diary. Milonoff is sensational in the lead, owning the screen at every emotional turn: burning embarrassment at her mother's neglect, seducing her target on the dance floor, and lashing out physical for attention. Though this is a three girl story across three Friday nights, and Haapasalo splits the plot pie in equal portions, Milonoff as Mimmi steals the show. "Girl Picture" is her movie. Watch out! - hipCRANK

I had the honor to screen this at Sundance and interview the Director and cast. It is a charming movie that handles the lives of these young women with real life moments and unapologetic honesty. I am so glad that more people have the chance to see this film.

A brilliant coming of age story about young women navigating modern Finland. Very reminiscent of Frances Ha and Greta Gerwig dramedy.

Extraordinary storytelling. Entertaining but profound. Awesome performances by the three young leads Milonoff, Leino and Kauhanen.

One of the best movies I've seen this year. Great writing and acting. The music was also good.