Watch New Waterford Girl
- TV-PG
- 1999
- 1 hr 37 min
-
6.9 (1,849)
New Waterford Girl is a coming-of-age story set in the small town of New Waterford, Nova Scotia, in the 1970s. The film follows the story of Mooney Pottie (Liane Balaban), a teenage girl who is struggling to find her place in the world. Mooney is bored with small town life and longs to escape to the city, where she feels she can finally be free.
Mooney's life takes a dramatic turn when a new girl moves to town. Lou Benzoa (Tara Spencer-Nairn) is everything Mooney is not: confident, bold, and fearless. Mooney is immediately drawn to Lou, and the two girls quickly become friends. Together, they explore the town and dream of a future beyond New Waterford.
As Mooney and Lou's friendship deepens, they begin to overcome the challenges of small town life. Mooney's overbearing mother, played by Mary Walsh, is the town's devout Catholic, and her father is an alcoholic. Mooney's mother is constantly pushing her towards the church, while her father seems indifferent to her struggles. Lou, on the other hand, has a rebellious streak and leads Mooney into a series of wild adventures.
Despite their differences, Mooney and Lou support each other in their struggles. Lou is the only person who sees Mooney's potential, and in turn, Mooney begins to push Lou to be more self-assured. The relationship between the two girls is at the center of the film, and it is a testament to the power of friendship.
The film is a charming and heartfelt portrayal of small town life. The idyllic landscape of Nova Scotia is captured in beautiful detail, and the film is peppered with local traditions and customs. The acting is superb, with Liane Balaban and Tara Spencer-Nairn delivering standout performances. Balaban portrays Mooney with a vulnerability and sensitivity that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, while Spencer-Nairn brings a refreshing energy and spontaneity to the role of Lou.
Overall, New Waterford Girl is a delightful film that celebrates the power of friendship and the struggle to find oneself. The film is a reminder that no matter where we come from, we all share a common desire to be seen and understood. It is a film that will leave you feeling nostalgic, inspired, and grateful for the people in your life who have helped you become the person you are today.