Ginger and Rosa

I was a little disappointed in Ginger and Rosa. I had read this review in the Times and was very much looking forward to it. Also, I thought Elle Fanning was amazing in Phoebe in Wonderland, and was excited to see her in something else.

The movie is about two teenagers in 1962 who have been friends since the day were born in the shadow of Hiroshima in 1945. Their friendship is supposed to be deep and special, but I didn't really get a sense of their bond. It seemed to be sort of superficially drawn. Rosa's father left her mother when she was a little girl, and Ginger (Elle Fanning) has artistic and narcissistic parents. The drama centers on an intense betrayal, that I can't give away. This aspect of the film I thought was well done. I was uncomfortable and horrified, and my heart went out to Ginger.

What irked me was the editing. I enjoyed watching the actors; I enjoyed the early 60s London setting; I was interested in watching characters unfold. But scenes ended so abruptly, leaving me feel stranded. This was done to quite frustrating effect in the final scene.

I thought Elle Fanning did a great job and has a wonderful emotional range (I was surprised to learn that she was only 13 when this was filmed). Her quiet, thoughtful acting was painful at times, and when she finally breaks down I felt tremendous compassion for her character.