Girl, Interrupted (1999)

“Have you ever confused a dream with life? Or stolen something when you have the cash? Have you ever been blue? Or thought your train moving while sitting still? Maybe I was just crazy. Maybe it was the 60s. Or maybe I was just a girl... interrupted.” A dramatic and impactful insight into a mental institution set in the 1960’s, ‘Girl, interrupted’ delves into the character of Susanna Kaysen and her inner struggles, resulting in an 8 month reside in Mclean Hospital following a diagnosis of ‘borderline personality disorder’ after attempting suicide. Through the innovative cinematography, we view this unfamiliar, disconcerting experience from her perspective; sharing her own fear and uncertainty in the world we are suddenly immersed in. Throughout the story, we not only uncover more depth into Susanna, but a diverse assortment of patients that she co-habits with , each with a distinct and idiosyncratic character which are revealed at various points throughout the film. Susanna, thrown from the chaos and turmoil, struggles with her stay at the hospital but soon grows accustomed to the regular procedures and routines, keeping an account of her day and thoughts and befriends many patients; including the assertive and domineering Lisa, a sociopath laden with rebellious hate and inner demons of her own. The film explores the subject of ‘mental illness’ in its own quirky and emotive way; harbouring the dark tone, as the film ‘One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ entails, instead balances the traumatic and disturbing scenes with humours elements and insightful and self-affirming messages that makes this film enjoyable – and not harrowing, to watch. The dramatic power obtained in this movie, has to be said is mainly due to the impressive and authentic portrays of both female leads, Winona Ryder and Angelina Jolie. Angelina Jolie’s representation of Lisa’s oppressing and forceful temperament is boundless and has rightfully won her praise from critics and numerous awards. Originally written as a novel, ‘Girl, interrupted’ deviates a little from the book but due to the duration, allowing more detail to be explored that is lacking in Kaysen’s memoire. ‘Girl, interrupted’ also highlights the way the girls identify with each other’s difficulties, desires and hopes, ultimately conveying the importance and worth of life, trust and friendship. A captivating and enlightening account to watch, I highly recommend this film to older members of Filmclub.