Watch Ellen

Ellen, a movie from 2016, is a drama directed by Mahalia Belo and written by Sarah Quintrell. The film tells the story of a female teenager named Ellen, who is attempting to navigate the ups and downs of adolescence in a small English town. The film begins with Ellen, played by Jessica Barden, as a shy, introverted young girl with a complex family background. She lives in a cramped and cluttered home with her mother and two half-brothers. Her life changes when she meets a new friend, Kayla (Yasmin Monet Prince), who is confident, outgoing and streetwise. Kayla introduces Ellen to a new group of friends, who are cool, rebellious, and always on the lookout for a good time.

As Ellen’s friendship with Kayla and her friends deepens, she discovers new things about herself and her sexuality. She realizes that she is gay and is attracted to a girl named Amy (Mollie Cowen). Ellen and Amy begin a relationship, but it proves to be difficult due to Ellen’s fear of coming out as gay to her family and the town.

The story also delves into the dynamics of Ellen’s family. Her mother, played by Jaime Winstone, is a single parent who is struggling to make ends meet. Her mother’s boyfriend, played by Nicholas Farrell, is an overbearing, controlling figure who causes frequent tension in the household. Ellen’s father (Joe Dempsie), a successful businessman who left the family when Ellen was very young, reappears in her life, bringing both hope and confusion.

The film shines a light on the challenges that young people in small towns often face, such as financial strain, substance abuse, bullying, and homophobia. Ellen’s struggles with her sexuality and fear of rejection are particularly poignant, as we often see her internalize the negative attitudes and prejudices of others.

Jessica Barden delivers a nuanced and deeply empathetic performance as Ellen. She portrays the character’s vulnerability with subtlety and sensitivity, while also showing her resilience and strength. Yasmin Monet Prince plays Kayla with confidence and charisma, and the chemistry between her and Barden is palpable. Joe Dempsie brings depth to his role as Ellen’s father, conveying the character’s regret and genuine desire to connect with his daughter.

The film’s cinematography, by Adam Scarth, is also worth mentioning. The muted colors and moody lighting imbue the film with a melancholy tone that matches Ellen’s emotional journey. The music, composed by Will Morris and Segun Akinola, is haunting and evocative, serving to heighten the film’s emotional impact.

Overall, Ellen is a powerful and poignant coming-of-age drama that explores issues of identity, family, and acceptance. The film’s honest portrayal of teenage life and struggles is sure to resonate with audiences of all ages. While it does contain some heartbreaking moments, it ultimately offers a hopeful message about the power of friendship, love, and self-acceptance.

In conclusion, Ellen is a film that leaves a lasting impact, showcasing a raw and unflinching look at the human experience. With excellent performances and a script that is both sensitive and honest, this film is not to be missed.