In our continuing coverage of Oscar-nominated films, guest reviewer PopC has a look at Promising Young Woman, nominated for five Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing.
“Wow” did I say after one of the strongest openings in recent film history, and “wow” did I say when the credits rolled. Everything in between was just as wow.
Promising Young Woman follows Cassie (played by Carey Mulligan), a 30-year old barista by day and an impostor by night. Every night she tricks predatory men into believing that she is drunk – then, when they try to take advantage of her and sexually abuse her, she teaches them a lesson. This is Cassie’s way of dealing with the death of her best friend Nina, who committed suicide after being raped while under influence.
Although the premise may seem dark and extreme, Cassie never goes over the line; just far enough to make predators – and later the people involved in Nina’s fate – feel violated and scared. More importantly, Promising Young Woman shines a light on existing sex-related issues, reflecting very serious and recognizable problems that demand more attention.
The screenplay that tackles these issues is written in both a horrifying and comedic way. The film is witty, funny, sad and scary all at the same time. Mulligan proves that she is a phenomenal actress, capable of switching between comedy, horror and drama with a snap of her fingers. Even despite the sometimes arguable things Cassie does, the viewer never loses sympathy for her cause.
For many women, this film will hit right home, but it is the men who will be able to recognize themselves that should really see this film. Still, there are no innocent people in this film, and everybody who watches it should be able to relate to someone’s behaviour, no matter how small or big this relativity is. Therefore, this film is an essential watch for any person, female or male.
Despite Promising Young Woman being her first feature film, Emerald Fennell proves that she is worthy of every award she is nominated for, not only being responsible for the direction of the film, but also the screenplay. With such a strong debut, what else will Fennell create for us to admire in the future? She is someone to keep your eyes on. She is a promising young woman.
Rating: ★★★★½
Available on: Streaming services (rent) or DVD/Blu-ray
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