“The Starling Girl” (2023) is a coming-of-age drama film directed and written by Laurel Parmet, marking her feature film debut. The movie explores the life of a young woman navigating her personal desires, religious expectations, and the complexity of growing up in a conservative community. The film stars Eliza Scanlen, Lewis Pullman, Jimmi Simpson, Wrenn Schmidt, and Austin Abrams, delivering powerful performances that deeply resonate with audiences.

The story follows Jem Starling (played by Eliza Scanlen), a 17-year-old girl who lives in a strict religious community. Despite her family’s expectations for her to conform to their beliefs, Jem finds herself drawn to questions about faith, love, and freedom. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she begins a relationship with a charismatic, older church leader, Owen (played by Lewis Pullman). This forbidden romance forces Jem to confront her desires, her faith, and her role in the community, ultimately leading her to a profound realization about herself.

Throughout the film, Jem’s character undergoes significant growth. At the start, she is portrayed as an obedient and innocent girl, struggling to fit into the mold of what is expected of her. As the story progresses, she becomes more aware of her own identity and desires. Her relationship with Owen challenges her, forcing her to reconcile her longing for personal freedom with the religious doctrines she has grown up with. The movie’s portrayal of her emotional journey is both authentic and relatable, allowing viewers to connect with her internal conflict.

One of the central themes of “The Starling Girl” is the exploration of faith and how it intersects with personal identity. Jem’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the expectations of her religious community and her own emerging desires. The film examines the pressures placed on young people to conform to societal and religious norms, while also highlighting the struggle for autonomy and personal belief. Through Jem’s experiences, the film invites viewers to reflect on the ways in which faith can shape one’s sense of self and the challenges of navigating conflicting beliefs.

The cinematography of “The Starling Girl” enhances the emotional depth of the story. The film uses subtle yet powerful visual imagery to convey Jem’s internal struggles, such as the contrasting scenes of church gatherings and the moments of solitude she experiences. Eliza Scanlen’s portrayal of Jem is captivating, as she brings nuance and vulnerability to the character. The chemistry between Scanlen and Lewis Pullman, portraying Owen, is both tender and intense, adding to the emotional tension of the film.

“The Starling Girl” is a poignant and thought-provoking coming-of-age drama that delves into the complexities of faith, identity, and personal growth. Laurel Parmet’s direction and screenplay skillfully navigate the delicate balance between personal desire and religious expectations, offering an honest and emotional portrayal of a young woman’s journey. With strong performances and a compelling narrative, the film resonates with anyone who has ever questioned their place in the world and sought to define their own identity. It is a remarkable debut for Parmet and a standout film for 2023.