Girls Will Be Girls

Story:

Girls Will Be Girls is a 2024 coming-of-age drama film written and directed by Shuchi Talati. The film features Preeti Panigrahi, Kani Kusruti, and Kesav Binoy Kiron in leading roles. A collaborative production between India and France, it marks Talati’s debut as a feature film director and serves as the acting debut for both Panigrahi and Kiron.

Set against the backdrop of a boarding school in the Himalayan foothills, the story follows teenager Mira as she navigates a romantic relationship with a charismatic new student, experiences a journey of sexual awakening, and grapples with her complicated relationship with her protective mother.

The film had its world premiere at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, competing in the festival’s official selection. It was later released on Amazon Prime Video on December 18, 2024.

Plot

Mira Kishore, a high school student, becomes the first girl in her boarding school’s history to be appointed Head Prefect, earning admiration as the top academic performer. Amid the celebratory cheers, she feels irritated by her mother, Anila, who distributes sweets on campus. When Mira scolds her, citing school rules against parents on the premises, Anila, an alumna of the same school, proudly notes the rule doesn’t apply to ex-students. She shares her pride in Mira’s achievement with the principal, Miss Bansal, highlighting the rarity of such success.

Meanwhile, Mira befriends Srinivas, a new student passionate about astronomy. Their friendship blossoms during a stargazing session, leading to shared secrets and late-night phone calls. Anila, concerned about Mira’s focus during this critical year, invites Srinivas home to assess him herself. Despite initial hesitation, she finds him mature and allows them to study together. Over time, the three bond over lively conversations, with Anila often sharing fond memories of her school days.

As Mira and Srinivas grow closer, she experiences the stirrings of romance but feels hurt by his reluctance to share details about his past. Despite her envy of Srinivas’s rapport with her mother, their relationship deepens. However, tension peaks during Srinivas’s birthday celebration at Mira’s home, where she feels overshadowed by Anila’s presence. Srinivas explains that gaining Anila’s trust is crucial for their relationship.

At school, Mira faces challenges as Head Prefect, particularly on Teacher’s Day, where a confrontation with boys she had previously reported leaves her shaken. After being chased, she locks herself in the hostel and calls Anila to take her home. The incident leads to a heated exchange between Anila and Miss Bansal, who blames Mira’s slipping performance on her mother’s leniency regarding Srinivas.

Back at home, a heartfelt conversation with Srinivas shifts Mira’s perspective. He shares his belief that everyone holds a key to themselves and reminds her of her mother’s quiet sacrifices and loneliness. Touched by his words, Mira reflects on her mother’s unspoken struggles. In a final tender moment, she oils Anila’s hair, symbolizing their reconciliation and a newfound appreciation for their bond.