American Woman

American Woman is a provocative and thoughtful drama released in 2019. Directly by Semi Chellas, it stars a talented cast, including the wide-ranging Hong Chau, the enthralling Sarah Gadon, and the dynamic John Gallagher Jr.

From its opening scene, American Woman grips you with the narrative centered around the lead character, Jenny Shimada; a role brilliantly played by Hong Chau. The story is set in the 1970s, a time of socio-political upheaval in America, resulting in a radicalized society and forms the broader setting of the film. Yet, the movie is not just a politically charged depiction of the era, but a stirring story of personal liberation, identity, and dilemmas that it brings along.

Hong Chau’s character, Jenny Shimada, is a reticent yet fiery activist living in secrecy due to her radical political past. Jenny is a distinctively drawn character with an air of mystery around her. Chau plays the role with a natural finesse, allowing audiences just enough insight into Jenny's character while maintaining an enigmatic air. She lends an inherent strength and complexity to the character, acting as the film’s reliable backbone.

Jenny's secrecy shatters when she is tasked with looking after three fugitives. This includes the noteworthy character Pauline (played by Sarah Gadon), a young mother with a militant husband. Sarah Gadon gives an impressive performance as the naive and gullible Pauline who makes consequential decisions based on her endearing trust in her husband, casting a strong, emotional undercurrent through the film. The tension-filled dynamic and growing relationship between Jenny and Pauline forms the crux of the narrative which is a brew of rebellion, awakening, and self-discovery.

Among the fugitives is also Pauline's baby, whom Jenny tends to, making an intriguing dynamic between them. The mysterious and nurturing relationship between the self-reliant Jenny and the innocent child casts moments of vulnerability that are pure and captivating to watch.

John Gallagher Jr. should also be acknowledged for his compelling performance. Although playing a supporting role, he effectively contributes to the film's overall intensity and keeps the audience engaged in the subtle yet potent political vibes of the narrative.

American Woman takes an innovative approach to the classic fugitive story. Despite being a movie about hiding, it lays bare the consequences of the characters' actions and choices. Its skill lies in its depiction of women and their evolving roles in a turbulent socio-political environment.

Under Semi Chellas's insightful direction and a precise script, the film takes you on an engaging journey as it intertwines personal and political struggles of its characters. However, don't make the mistake of categorizing American Woman as purely a historical piece or a political drama. Instead, it transcends boundaries and emerges as a character study, an exploration of womanhood, a spy thriller, and a nuanced commentary on socio-political landscape.

The cinematography of the film, by Gregoire Hetzel, deserves special mention as it beautifully captures Jenny's reclusive life, their hideaway's rustiness, and the shadowy, eerie essence of the hide-and-seek that forms the film's central theme. The silence it punctuates is occasionally broken by intense confrontations or hushed discussions, which adds an uncanny charm to the movie.

In conclusion, American Woman is a striking portrayal of personal conflicts in politically charged times, led by a thoughtful and riveting performance by Hong Chau. When mixed with excellent performances from Sarah Gadon and John Gallagher Jr., the result is a film that beautifully blends the thematic elements of political drama, suspense, and character exploration. American Woman isn't just a movie set in the 70s - its thought-provoking themes and compelling narrative resonate with audiences of any era.