Watch The Girl from Monday

The Girl from Monday is a 2005 science fiction movie directed by Hal Hartley. It's a satirical take on the capitalist society and its maladies. The movie is set in a futuristic version of New York City where people are bought and sold like commodities. The film stars Bill Sage, Sabrina Lloyd and Tatiana Abracos in lead roles. The movie opens with a group of aliens who are observing life on Earth. They're informed about the unique scenario where humans trade in their labor and time for money. However, things take a dark turn when they learn that people also sell themselves into bondage and are referred to as Citizen Consumers. The aliens are shocked and dismayed at the state of the society.

Enter Jack Bell (Bill Sage), a high-ranking executive in the advertising industry. He's the epitome of the white-collar worker, dressing sharply and having a well-groomed appearance. We see him attend meetings where he tries to pitch ideas for a new ad campaign. Soon we learn that he's also a part of a group of rebels who are fighting against the society's shortcomings. They encourage people to break free from the system and stop being a Citizen Consumer.

During one of their meetings, Jack encounters a mysterious woman who captures his attention. She's identified as an alien in a human body, from the planet Monday. She comes bearing powers to change the course of the society, and Jack is tasked with the job of helping her. They soon get involved in a romantic relationship, which eventually helps Jack recognize his own identity and the importance of his fight against the forces of capitalism.

We're also introduced to Cecile (Sabrina Lloyd), one of Jack's colleagues at work. She, too, is part of the resistance, but in her own way. Cecile resides in a small community of like-minded individuals, where the simple life is valued. She's discontent with Jack's inability to break free entirely from the system and pursue a life without its shackles. Cecile's character is significant in the sense that she tries to balance out Jack's self-serving interests with the larger picture.

Tatiana Abracos plays the part of Julianna, a Citizen Consumer who experiences a break in the monotony of her life. She's an example of the society's brainwashed zombies, who keep working programed to consume more. One day, Julianna has a chance encounter with Jack, and he tries to reach through to her and awaken her to the society's injustices.

The Girl from Monday is a visually stunning movie that takes us through the highs and lows of the society's inner workings. The movie's tone is pessimistic for the most part, yet there are moments of genuine hope that keep the audience invested. The movie's visual narrative is essential to the overall theme, with contrasting shots of futuristic buildings and natural landscapes, symbolizing the conflicting choices we face in our lives.

In conclusion, The Girl from Monday is an intriguing and thought-provoking science fiction drama. It's a beautiful commentary on capitalist societies, and its myriad ways of oppressing people. The movie underscores the importance of breaking free from the chains that bind us and embracing our identity as individuals. It may take a bit of a leap of imagination to immerse oneself in the movie's world, but it's ultimately rewarding.