Daughter

"Daughter" is a 2016 Australian indie drama feature film gracing the silver screen with an artistic blend of emotion, sensitivity, and existential pondering. The 86-minute film is written and directed by Sarah Jayne Portelli and in her able hands, the film competently delivers an emotionally intense narrative expanding across the intricate layers of the human psyche.

The film stars the highly talented Katherine Langford - the actress that later gained huge recognition through the Netflix series "13 Reasons Why" - leading a narrative centered around young women and the different paths they tread, each one showcasing a unique facet of the multifaceted portrayal of womanhood in today’s society. Katherine plays the character of Scarlett, adding to the narrative depth through her compelling performance.

Next, complementing Katherine’s performance, we have Tara Jakszewicz playing the character of Jemma, a sex worker struggling with her own demons. Tara digs deep into her character, creating an embodiment of vulnerability and strength intertwined, perfectly capturing the nuances of her character’s complex personality and life circumstances.

The mature and talented Carolyn Rey grounds the plot, portraying the character of the homeless woman, Aggie. She not only provides a stark contrast to the vibrant youth in the film but also adds layers of meaning and depth to the plot through her sync of suffering and wisdom.

"Daughter" is set amidst the vibrant life of busting St. Kilda, Melbourne, which nearly becomes a character itself, contributing both visually and thematically to the canvas of the film. From the beaches, bright lights, and the bustling streets, the city breathes life into the narrative, merging seamlessly with the characters’ stories as they navigate through their lives.

Bristling with energy and emotion, "Daughter" establishes a sincere dialogue about societal issues like violence against women, gender inequality, stereotyping, and loss, evoking empathy in audiences. Through the independent narratives of Scarlett, Jemma, and Aggie, the movie explores the diverse female experiences in society. Each carries her own emotional burden, facing distinct yet interwoven challenges that echo the varying degrees of societal judgment, prejudice, and misconception.

"Daughter" offers deep introspection into topics often relegated only to whispering corridors. The movie spotlights sex workers, homelessness, and youth, prompting a much-needed conversation on the societal prejudices that cling to these subjects. Through its narration, it emphasizes empathy and understanding, subtly raising a mirror to the viewer, urging them to reassess and realign their opinions with a more humanistic perspective.

The film scripts creative storytelling, not only through the characters but also through its visual aesthetics, creating a balanced blend of style meeting substance. The cinematography skilfully captures the emotion and intensity of each moment, while the deft editing ensures that the film maintains a contemplative pace, revealing bits and pieces of the story that keeps the audience ca2ptivated in its grip.

Moving towards its climax, "Daughter" plunges to chilling depths of complexity, treading a non-linear storytelling path, and in its intricate weaving of stories, one can't help but experience an existential tinge, much like a poignant poem that reminds us of the contrasting shades of life.

The film was well-received in its numerous festival runs and celebrated for its emotional depth, strong performances, and meaningful narrative. In particular, Katherine Langford's performance has been consistently praised, with her portrayal of Scarlett winning her Best Actress at multiple film festivals.

Despite its bold exploration of topics often whispers in society, "Daughter" handles sensitive subjects with compassion, understanding, and unwavering truthfulness. It urges the audience to confront their prejudices and seeks to humanize rather than vilify, making for an emotional and provocative cinematic experience. The film is a deep dive into the human experience through the prism of womanhood, exploring an array of emotions and experiences that are artistically compiled into a compelling visual narrative.

In conclusion, "Daughter" is more than just a film. It’s an artful exploration of life itself, a prism refracting societal issues, and an urging call for empathy, understanding, and change. It’s a film that connects deeply with its audience, leaving behind an imprint that lingers long after the end credits roll.