Appropriate Behavior

Appropriate Behavior is a smart, daring, and thoroughly engaging independent film that premiered in 2014. This film offers a fresh take on the classic coming-of-age story enriched with contemporary themes. The film is written, directed, and stars Desiree Akhavan, with supporting performances by Rebecca Henderson and Halley Feiffer. Appropriate Behavior is an insightful journey into the struggles of self-identity, sexual orientation, cultural identity, and relationships in modern-day New York City.

The story follows Shirin, portrayed by Desiree Akhavan, a young, bisexual Persian-American woman living in Brooklyn. She is struggling with balancing her different identities and meeting expectations from different angles of her life. The film kicks off just after her breakup with her girlfriend Maxine, played by Rebecca Henderson. Maxine breaks up with Shirin as she is unable to come out to her traditional Iranian family, tying into the film's prominent theme of cultural identity and acceptance.

Shirin, left heartbroken and confused, dives into an adventurous journey of self-discovery and healing with a fair dosage of situations both hilarious and poignant along the way. She dives into the vibrant and complex Brooklyn dating scene, engages with an array of colorful characters, and experiences a series of diverse encounters. Interwoven into the narrative are flashbacks showing Shirin's relationship with Maxine, which offset the chaotic present and offer a bit more depth to both characters and their complicated relationship.

Desiree Akhavan as Shirin embodies the character with unflinching honesty, making Shirin relatable despite her flaws. Akhavan's complex and genuine portrayal of a woman juggling her multifaceted identities is triumphant and invigorating. Akhavan's boundless talent doesn't just stop at acting - it carries over to her writing and directing as she deftly navigates the different threads of the narrative, ensuring that each scene delivers its message powerfully and that the story progressively unfolds at a pace that keeps the viewer engaged.

Rebecca Henderson, as Shirin's ex-girlfriend, Maxine, delivers a powerful and complex performance. Maxine might appear tough and unyielding initially, but as the story unravels, so do layers of her character, revealing the underlying tenderness and vulnerability. Akhavan and Henderson's on-screen chemistry extends beyond their romantic relationship, grounding the ideological conflicts between characters in shared history and deep affection for each other.

Halley Feiffer, who plays a supporting role as Shirin's brother's fiancée, complements the cast by adding the right blend of humor and tension. The dynamic between Shirin and her brother's picture-perfect relationship brought a humorous edge to the heavy narrative.

The film also paints a vivid picture of the unique, diverse, and sometimes bewildering culture of Brooklyn, making the city a character in its own right. The cinematography captures the borough in all its glory, from the hipster vibe of Park Slope to the multicultural fervor of Prospect Heights. The fashionable lofts, bustling streets, colorful markets, and relaxed parks offer a well-rounded showcase of Brooklyn, providing the perfect backdrop for Shirin's explorations.

Despite its comedic elements, Appropriate Behavior doesn't shy away from presenting the raw emotions and challenges that come with the search for identity in the modern world. It delves into serious themes such as cultural pressure, sexual liberation, and minority representation, embodying the conflicts and changes experienced by the millennials and Gen Z population.

Appropriate Behavior is a quirky blend of humor, romance, and drama that explores identity, acceptance, and the universal quest for connection. It's a tale well told and a strong showcase of Akhavan's multifaceted talent. For audience members looking for a refreshing, relatable, and thought-provoking portrayal of contemporary life, Appropriate Behavior hits all the right notes.