Disco

Disco is a 2019 Norwegian film starring Josefine Frida Pettersen, Jean Superbanan Andersen, and Espen Reboli Bjerke, and is written and directed by Jorunn Myklebust Syversen. The movie presents an intimate examination of mental health, identity struggles, youth, religion, and competition set against the fascinating backdrop of competitive disco freestyle dancing - a predominantly Norwegian dance culture phenomenon that adds incredible visual appeal to the narrative.

Josefine Frida Pettersen, widely recognized by the international audience for her role in the youth series "Skam," takes center stage in the film with her moving portrayal of the 19-year-old protagonist, Mirjam. A champion in the freestyle disco dancing scene, she is also a highly respected member of her church, "The Freedom," a fictionalized Evangelical congregation. She's the epitome of the successful youngster, living a life of rhythmic dancing and religious spirituality - two seemingly contrasting worlds.

However, beneath this shimmering surface, Disco delves into the pounding rhythm of Mirjam's personal turmoil. As the reigning dancing queen, she is expected to consistently perform and win, while dutifully fulfilling her religious obligations at church, despite her growing doubts. When she starts experiencing panic attacks after losing a dance competition, Mirjam's life takes a significant turn.

Dance and religion serve as vibrant allegorical backdrops to Mirjam’s internal struggles. The movie intelligently uses the likenesses and contrasts between religious fervour and dance passion, both of which represent comprehensive systems with rigid expectations and strict rules. It charmingly portrays how Mirjam, like many young people, is caught between these intense pressures of her environment, dealing with expectations, her fleeting teenage years, and the quest of finding her identity.

Exploring Faith is a key component of the movie. As a leading figure in her Evangelical community, Mirjam struggles with her implicit faith, pushed into a whirlwind of doubting her beliefs, driven by personal experience rather than inherent religious scepticism. This aspect contributes immensely to the psychological depth of her character.

Jean Superbanan Andersen and Espen Reboli Bjerke deliver strong supporting performances. While Andersen convincingly portrays one of Mirjam’s compassionate dance competitors, Espen Reboli Bjerke is commendable as a compassionate yet flawed spiritual figure in Mirjam's life. The dynamics between these three main characters add complex layers to the plot and constantly challenge the protagonist's beliefs about herself and her surroundings.

The cinematography by Marius Matzow Gulbrandsen is distinctive, creating a stark dichotomy between the world of disco dancing, filled with vivid colors, glitter, and loud music, and the hushed, solemn interiors of the church. This creates a distinctive visual narrative that complements and enhances Mirjam's emotional journey.

Despite the glittery on-stage performances that offer an instant visual appeal, the film shines brightest in its quieter moments, the in-between spaces where Mirjam confronts her anxieties and uncertainties. Disco does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities and struggles of its young protagonist. Instead, it throws light on how societal norms and rigid systems can trigger mental health problems, particularly anxiety, in youngsters who fail to cope with extreme pressures.

Directed by Jorunn Myklebust Syversen, Disco is a bold film that dares to explore the psychological underpinnings of a teenager's life confronting societal expectations and her subsequent identity crisis. It's equally an intimate character study and a social critique, wrapped in the alluring veneer of competitive dance and Evangelical Christianity.

Disco, therefore, delightfully celebrates the strength and resilience of its young protagonist. Through her struggles and eventual transformation, the film underscores the importance of self-discovery and staying true to oneself. Syversen masterfully constructs and deconstructs Mirjam's character to deliver a thought-provoking narrative that remains etched in the mind long after the credits roll.

Overall, Disco is an absorbing drama that brilliantly blends the world of competitive dancing with the complex reality of religious identity and youth’s mental health. It's a beautiful exploration of personal growth, the perils of rigid conformism, and the courage required to question the status quo. With its fascinating premise, nuanced performances, and visually striking scenes, Disco is an absolute must-watch that leaves a lasting impact.