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Two Friends is a 1986 Australian drama film directed by Jane Campion, starring Kris Bidenko, Emma Coles, and Kris McQuade. The film explores the complex and turbulent friendship of two teenage girls, Kelly and Louise. It depicts their journey towards adulthood, detailing their experiences with love, sex, drugs, and the pressures of growing up.

The film opens with a scene of Kelly (Bidenko) and Louise (Coles) on a rooftop, discussing their dreams and aspirations. It's clear from the outset that the two girls have a special bond, one that is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared desire to break free from their mundane lives. Despite coming from different socioeconomic backgrounds, Kelly and Louise are united by their rebellious spirit and their determination to live life on their own terms.

As the film progresses, we see Kelly and Louise navigate the challenges of adolescence. They experiment with drugs, try out sex, and struggle to find their place in the world. However, their friendship remains the constant, the one thing that helps them bear the weight of a world that doesn't always understand them.

One of the most striking aspects of Two Friends is its portrayal of female friendship. Campion examines the intricacies of the bond that exists between Kelly and Louise, exploring the ways in which they support and challenge each other. The film doesn't shy away from depicting the intimacy that often characterizes teenage female friendships, but it also acknowledges the complicated power dynamics that can come into play.

In addition to its exploration of friendship, Two Friends also offers an insightful look at class and gender issues. Kelly and Louise come from very different backgrounds, with Kelly living in a public housing estate and Louise being a privileged private school student. Their differing socioeconomic statuses come into play throughout the film, with Kelly often feeling inferior and judged by Louise's friends. Furthermore, the film depicts the pressures that young women face to conform to societal expectations of femininity and sexuality, with both Kelly and Louise struggling to assert their identities in a world that wants to pigeonhole them.

Despite its heavy themes, Two Friends also has moments of humor and levity. The film captures the awkwardness and joy of adolescence, with scenes of the girls dancing, smoking, and goofing around. There is a sense of nostalgia that permeates the film, one that will resonate with viewers who remember their own teenage years.

The performances in Two Friends are excellent, with Bidenko and Coles delivering powerful, nuanced performances that do justice to the complex characters they are portraying. Bidenko captures Kelly's sense of longing and vulnerability, while Coles imbues Louise with a strong-willed, impulsive energy. McQuade also shines as Kelly's mother, portraying a woman who is caring but emotionally distant from her daughter due to her struggles with mental health.

In terms of its technical aspects, Two Friends is a visual treat. Campion's direction is stylish and innovative, with striking use of color, framing, and camera movement. The film's soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring an eclectic mix of songs that capture the mood of the era.

In conclusion, Two Friends is a powerful drama that explores the complexities of female friendship and the challenges of growing up. It is a film that will resonate with anyone who has struggled to find their place in the world, or who has leaned on a friend during difficult times. With strong performances, a great soundtrack, and thoughtful direction, Two Friends is a must-see for fans of coming-of-age dramas.

Two Friends is a 1986 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.