What Lola Wants

What Lola Wants is a captivating romantic thriller film created in 2015 and directed by Rupert Glasson. The film develops a breathtaking storyline based around a young woman, Lola Franklin, a 17-year-old runaway from Beverly Hills. Played by talented Australian actress Sophie Lowe, Lola's character carries a mysterious flair, fostering intrigue among other characters and viewers alike. As the story unravels, it's observed that Lola doesn’t exist as a regular teenager seeking random adventure. Instead, she holds the daring spirit of a young woman, determined to carve out her path independently, away from her affluent roots.

Simultaneously, her parents construct an elaborate lie about her, claiming that she had been kidnapped. The far-fetched hoax includes a reward of 1 million dollars for her safe return, and this stirs up interest from all possible quarters. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when Lola meets Marlo Briggs, a young and notorious pickpocket portrayed by Beau Knapp. Marlo is battling his struggles but seizes the opportunity to claim the reward after recognizing Lola from the news. However, the complexities of the narrative build when Lola convinces Marlo to support her instead, commencing an unexpected and thrilling journey.

Their rollercoaster road trip through the Thomas Guide across the USA becomes the central theme, the vast landscapes becoming almost cinematic characters in their own right. The stunning cinematography woven throughout the narrative effectively supplements the unfolding suspense and the burgeoning bond between the two leads. As the pair navigate through their shared endeavor, they experience an array of adventures, defining and redefining their relationship throughout a sequence of surprise circumstances.

Even though the viewers only get a glimpse of Lola’s mother, Mrs. Franklin, she is a pivotal character who has a significant impact on Lola’s decisions. Mrs. Franklin, portrayed by the brilliant Dale Dickey, is a forceful woman who will go to any lengths to find her daughter, uncaring of her actual desires. The virtual control that Mrs. Franklin exerts over Lola with this staged abduction forms a significant subplot and becomes the underlying cause of Lola's desperate quest for freedom.

The blend of personalities between tough, resourceful Lola, and the roguish but gentle-hearted Marlo, brings elements of romance, tension, and humor into the film. What Lola Wants skillfully balances many cinematic elements, oscillating from fast-paced action to intimate emotional moments. The screenplay reveals layers of their respective personal histories, their strains of tender vulnerability, and the unspoken yet flowering romance between Lola and Marlo.

What Lola Wants is supported by a noteworthy ensemble cast that elevates the storyline. Charles S. Dutton plays the role of the private investigator hired to find Lola, adding another rich layer to the narrative. The spinning narrative also introduces viewers to a motley mix of characters who play pivotal roles, positive and negative, in the story arc.

Glasson’s narrative style seamlessly alternates between nuanced emotion and heady action, shifting themes and landscapes, maintaining a perfect balance across the plot plotline. The unconventional narrative approach cultivates steady anticipation among viewers, keeping everyone guessing about Lola's real intentions and her ultimate destination. The soundtrack also deserves mention. The choice of well-curated music tracks enhance the overall texture of the film, providing an unforgettable auditory backdrop to the unfolding drama.

What Lola Wants is an intricate blend of romance, adventure, and suspense, given life by excellent performances. Sophie Lowe’s portrayal of Lola is noteworthy for the complexity and depth she brings into the character. The rapport between Sophie Lowe and Beau Knapp is captivating, ensuring viewers stay glued to their evolving dynamics. The excellent performances across the cast, driven by Glasson's compelling direction, keeps the wheels of this thrilling escapade turning.

Overall, What Lola Wants is a film not just about a runaway teenager, but about the complex layers of human desires: independence, companionship, survival, and love. It is a riveting road trip narrative about two young individuals breaking away from their past. Their encounters, experiences, and burgeoning bond give them a stark perspective about what they truly want out of life. This thrilling journey takes viewers along multiple pathways of self-discovery, intrigue, and love, making What Lola Wants an engaging film to watch.