The Starling Girl

This is a first rate coming of age story that benefits both from excellent direction and writing but primarily from an amazing, nuanced performance by Eliza Scanien in the lead role of Jem Starling. Do yourself a big favor and watch this sensitive, intelligent film.

The movie resonated with me. I am Jem, but the organist version in a very conservative church. And fell in love with an older guy too

The Starling Girl is a beautiful film. The writer/director mentioned at Sundance that the film was partially based on her personal story, which is part of what makes it so compelling. The film was nuanced and authentic and raw, and Eliza Scanlen was amazing as Jem. Lewis Pullman is nearly unrecognizable and performs his role so well.

Character study of characters that do not have much depth in a story that lacks emotion and dramatic punch.

Despite an unnecessary final scene that feels like it's from another movie, this is a film that until that point was authentic and felt like it was totally possible. Later, when I read that the writer directer was studying evangelicals and she softened the story, I was actually disappointed. Such is life. Still, this is totally worth seeing. A very respectful view of the community is on display by Laurel Parmet who is making her debut as a feature filmmaker. Eliza Scanlen puts her skills on display once again. She's playing about five years younger effortlessly and credibly. Lewis Pullman is a future star. The duo have a chemistry and there are on screen a lot together. Final Score: 7.1/10

Beautiful portrayal of a girl growing up and the excruciating pain and hurt that comes from rejection and shame around not following the status quo. I can feel all the emotions of this movie and stunned at how realistic and thought provoking it is around a first love.

Jem's life was so weighted down with control it was a wonder she could move at all. Racing toward Owen's car with her duffel bag was the smartest thing she ever did. It was a powerful moment. Throwing off everything for the man you love. Risking all of it. She even surprised herself. But her twirling around in Arlene"s bar at the end left me questioning her maturity.

It was a pretty good movie with a decent plot and acting. I must say I was disappointed with the ending as it seemed to be phoned in. It's worth the watch.

I couldn't help but notice the main lead's subtle reactions throughout this relentlessly consistent breathless of a viewing. The cinematographer did a good job capturing her face to convey any concerning message. The acting from the main lead was flawless. Everyone in this movie was good along with a powerful movie. It was well-paced for the runtime.

The body of the movie is good; However the ending could have been more conclusive. I understand why it ended that way; But it could have been better.