Party Girl

Party Girl is a vibrant 1995 comedy-drama that stars Parker Posey as the titular character, Mary. The film also features supporting performances from Omar Townsend and Lady Bunny among many others. A festive, quirky, and must-see indie comedy, Party Girl gives an authentic feeling of the '90s New York party scene while also managing to touch on personal growth, freedom, and redefining expectations.

The story follows Mary, traditionally known to be the life of any party who dives headlong into the frenetic New York nightlife of underground parties and music, dabbling in illicit activities. Her free-spirited yet chaotic lifestyle takes a turn when she lands in jail and is bailed out by her godmother, Judy Lindendorf, played by Sasha von Scherler. Judy, who happens to be a librarian, offers Mary a job in the library to help her turn around her life. Initially reluctant, Mary eventually agrees, mainly to pay back her godmother. This unusual job provides a complete contrast to her party girl life, upturning her world and fundamentally shifting her perspective.

Throughout the film, Mary struggles to balance her notorious night-time activities with a newfound respect for her day job. To everyone's surprise, she starts to excel as a librarian, enforcing stern yet ironically humorous rules, helping patrons, and making herself invaluable at the library. Simultaneously, Mary's attraction for mustachioed Lebanese street vendor, Mustafa, played by Omar Townsend is woven into the plot, punctuated by confusion and infatuation.

The narrative incorporates different themes, like a bildungsroman where Mary comes to terms with her life, transforming from a reckless party-goer to a woman who begrudgingly respects and even enjoys responsibilities. It balances this with a striking commentary on New York's counter-culture in the '90s, the music, fashion, and underground party scenes, giving authentic insights without over-romanticizing. It's a story about growing up, about figuring out what you want, and what lengths you're willing to go to achieve those objectives.

Parker Posey's performance as the wild yet complex Mary is noteworthy. She brings intensity, charisma, and depth to her role that perfectly encapsulates the frivolous charm and eventual maturity of her character. The supporting cast, including Omar Townsend as the immigrant love interest and Sasha von Scherler as the stern yet caring godmother, make their mark as well. The appearance of Lady Bunny, a famous drag queen, and DJ, Jesús Soto, hints at the diversity of the '90s club scene, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and specific. Director Daisy von Scherler Mayer intersperses ensemble scenes with intimate moments, creating a narrative full of contrast and character.

The film's style is very much reflective of the period it encapsulates. Vivid, colorful, and grungy, Party Girl presents an eclectic mix of fashion and aesthetics, from thrift store chic to club kid flamboyance. The iconic wardrobe not only serves to define the characters but also illuminates the overall ambiance and cultural setting. The soundtrack, filled with techno, house, and worldly beats, is deeply immersive, enhancing the atmosphere of the underground party scene. It is as much a character in the film as the actors themselves.

Party Girl stands out for its bold portrayal of the party culture, a sharp-tongued script, and some brilliant performances. It may seem light-hearted and frivolous on the surface, but underneath its colorful exterior, it is a thoughtful exploration of youth culture, self-discovery, independence, and individual growth. It is a cult classic, remembered fondly for its eccentricity and genuine heart and primarily for its vivacious lead, Parker Posey. It's a coming-of-age story dipped in glitter, soundtracked by pulsating dance music, and wrapped up in a celebration of the joy, the struggle, and the absurdity of life.