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“Girl” is a slow-burner that simmers with unspoken tension. It weaves a story of Grace, an African immigrant in Glasgow, and her young daughter Ama. Their bond is tight, but tinged with an undercurrent of tension. Grace is fiercely protective, bordering on paranoid, keeping Ama close to their dingy flat. This raises eyebrows with social services and creates a suffocating atmosphere for Ama, who’s on the cusp of adolescence and yearning for connection.

Onashile’s strength lies in crafting a world that feels intimate and textured. The grainy cinematography captures the harsh beauty of Glasgow, contrasting it with the warmth of Grace and Ama’s tiny flat. The score, a blend of strings and choral voices, adds a layer of melancholy that perfectly complements the film’s introspective mood. Forget the melodrama. This is a real, raw look at the complexities of a mother-daughter relationship. It’s a more subtle exploration of love, fear, and the lingering effects of past trauma.

Déborah Lukumuena delivers a powerhouse performance as Grace. She portrays a complex character, a loving mother battling her own demons. Le’Shantey Bonsu, as Ama, is equally captivating. Her portrayal of a curious child yearning for a life beyond their four walls is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, making their strained relationship all the more affecting.

“Girl” is a film that lingers long after the credits roll. It compels you to ponder the complexities of motherhood, the weight of cultural displacement, and the lasting impact of trauma. Be prepared for some silences and a deliberate pace, but if you’re looking for a film that stays with you, this is a must-watch.

See it if:

• You enjoy introspective dramas that explore complex family dynamics.
• You appreciate strong performances, particularly from the lead actresses.
• You’re looking for a film with a distinct visual style and a hauntingly beautiful score.

Skip it if:

• You crave fast-paced action and clear-cut answers.
• You get impatient with films that rely heavily on atmosphere and unspoken emotions.
• You’re not a fan of slow burns with a focus on character development over plot.

“Girl” is a remarkable debut from Adura Onashile. It’s a film that burrows under your skin and stays with you long after the credits roll, leaving you pondering the intricacies of the mother-daughter bond and the enduring scars of trauma. Onashile’s assured direction and the powerful performances by Déborah Lukumuena and Le’Shantey Bonsu make this a film that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.