Samuel Garcia Reviews Greta Gerwig’s Frances Ha
Movies help us relax. At the end of a whirlwind day, what else feels better than a movie with some rosé and cold feet under miles of blankets? The truth is at some point or another we’ve all used the famed silver screen or the static and electronic buzz of your second hand TV and DVD player to just unwind and relax. I had ready a newly opened bottle of rosé and my grandma’s favorite wool throw when I picked out the first title I could find in Greta Gerwig’s library, and soon enough was reminded about another subtle truth in movies. Sometimes we find some version of ourselves looking back. “Frances Ha” is a painfully relatable film about the struggles of adulting and finding a place in the world; personally and professionally. From breakups to losing touch with friends; saying yes to every opportunity; continuously failing; getting back up; and trying again, this film covers it all. At some point the narrative will take you to a place where you can check the “been there-done that” box. The story follows Frances, a free-spirited, joyful, and fireball 27-year-old woman with a failing career and struggling relationships. A grown woman who can’t help making child-like decisions, she is painfully real in every definition of the word. Despite the world working against her, Frances maintains a strong sense of purpose which allows her to pursue her goals with tenacity. The personality-filled characters and topical humor throughout this black-and-white film paints the story with vibrant color. “Frances Ha”, a watch you won’t regret! Because soon enough you might find some past or future version of yourself smiling back before the credits roll.To hear more about Greta Gerwig’s writing process watch On Story episode 1, season 8 A Conversation with Greta Gerwig.
For more On Story check out our newest Podcast episode ON WRITING THE WHALE + ON WRITING AMBULANCE