Ory

I was a bit dejected with how this ended. I felt like it never reached a climax, but then again, this could also represent how the protagonist never got to reach his truest self and therefore the story is to be continued because “*there is still time*.” Ngl, I was pretty confused for probably the whole first hour of this film, and then the meaning behind this entire thing finally sunk in. Most times in coming-of-age films, the main character tends to give in to this new fantasy world that’s presented to them and choose to become what they were always supposed to be. But I appreciated and found it very interesting to get to see a story in which this, tragically and poetically enough, does not happen. The protagonist chooses to not revel in this transition, afraid of what this new world could disrupt in his present reality. As an openly queer person, I’ve always known how lucky I am to be able to express myself and be as I please and am, while being perpetually aware that not everyone gets to unravel into who they are and either decide or are forced to live alienated from themselves. I cannot even imagine how much worse it must be for transgender people who not only have to battle with disorienting feelings but also being entrapped in a body that does not correspond to who they really are. The soundtrack was completely and utterly stunning! Also, Phoebe Bridgers mentioned! I’m so scared for her new album ‘cause I’m sure it’s gonna destroy the little bits of mental stability I’ve got left. I want to mention the visuals as well ‘cause lighting and color grading went hard as hell!! And btw, was there a Méliès reference in this, perhaps?

*“I’m in lesbians with you.”* Was I high or just watching this film? This was a fever dream, or a strong line—I can’t decide. All in all, I think this was so dope! It would’ve been amazing to watch this one in 3D in a movie theater. I definitely was in need of more Kieran Culkin and Anna Kendrick screen time, though, and I wish Natalie’s storyline actually got somewhere in the end.