The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love

The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love is a beautifully crafted tender comedy-drama, directed by Maria Maggenti and released in 1995. Set in a suburb of New York, the movie stars Laurel Holloman, Nicole Ari Parker, and Maggie Moore, amongst others, in a heartfelt story that navigates through themes of teenage angst, self-discovery, love, and acceptance.

At the center of this narrative are our main characters, Randy Dean (Laurel Holloman) and Evie Roy (Nicole Ari Parker). Randy is a loose cannon, a high school dropout working in a gas station, raised by her lesbian aunt and her lover. She sports a tomboyish demeanor, and her explosive spirit doesn't shy away from getting her into skirmishes or disrupting her neighbourhood's peace. Her lifestyle is the polar opposite of Evie, an upper-middle-class girl, who studies at an exclusive prep school and is known for her wisdom and grace, an absolute epitome of conformity.

The plot kicks off as an unlikely friendship begins to form when these two polar opposite lives intersect, serendipitously. Charting the course of their friendship, The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love unfolds a sweet story, where the intense emotions of first love and sexual self-discovery are beautifully portrayed. It takes its audience on a rather tempestuous journey, portraying blossoming teenage love and the excitement that ensues mixed with the tinges of fear and anticipation that a journey towards self-discovery often brings with it.

The chemistry between Laurel Holloman and Nicole Ari Parker is undeniably electric, as their characters explore the trajectories of their increasingly complicated relationship. Meanwhile, the arrival of Vicky (played by Maggie Moore), Randy's best friend, imparts the storyline with an added layer of complexity.

Director Maria Maggenti does a splendid job of juggling between comedy and drama in this roller coaster of emotions. The film tenderly explores LGBTQ+ themes and coming-of-age narratives, all while maintaining a light-heartedness that keeps the audience engaged and entertained. What makes The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love stand out is its ability to explore such intense themes with a teen romance's carefree ease.

The movie skillfully takes on the classic trope of "opposites attract." On one side, it emphasizes Randy's rebellion and unapologetically loud personality, in contrast to Evie's conforming and obedient image. This unlikely companionship unfolds and evolves into a deeper relationship than either of the two ever anticipated, and it's wonderful to watch their personalities collide and resonate with each other.

Despite being released in the mid-90s, The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love cuts ahead of its time. It bravely dives into topics like the struggles of teenage LGBTQ+ individuals, social inequality, class differences, and the stigma faced by the community. All this is done in such a subtle manner that one can't help but be drawn into the film's world.

The scope of character development is vast. As the story progresses, we see Randy and Evie taking on the world, their path fraught with ups and downs fueled by societal pressures and personal confusion. They are seen to grow, not just individually but together as a unit, their bond growing stronger with each passing scene.

The supporting cast, including Randy's aunt and her partner, Evie's mother, and friends, adds depth to the storyline, painting a vivid picture of the surroundings the protagonists inhabit. Their actions and reactions provide a stark reflection of what society perceives and how it treats individuals that deviate from the typical path.

Overall, The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love is a deeply touching, honest, real, and uplifting movie. It conveys its theme delicately, without ever getting too heavy or preachy. Whether you're looking to explore LGBTQ+ cinema, appreciate a well-written coming-of-age story, or enjoy a wholesome romantic tale, this film makes for an incredible watch. It's an iconic piece of 90s cinema about young love that resonates just as strongly today. The film's title indeed speaks for itself – it is an incredibly true adventure of love and self-discovery presented without pretense or cliché.