Molly Manners' inaugural feature film, "Extra Geography," based on Rose Tremain's eponymous short story, masterfully navigates the intricate landscape of adolescent female friendships. With a narrative that is both incisive and profoundly humorous, the movie, penned by "Succession" writer Miriam Battye, captures the essence of youthful uncertainty and the intense bonds forged during girlhood. Led by the compelling performances of Marni Duggan and Galaxie Clear, the film offers a refreshing and timeless portrayal of two young women grappling with identity, ambition, and the complexities of their evolving relationship. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of female camaraderie, marked by its sharp dialogue and heartfelt exploration of growing up.
The film introduces us to Flic and Minna, two boarding school students whose bond is characterized by a mix of affection, rivalry, and a shared sense of impending doom concerning their futures. Their world, steeped in British sensibilities reminiscent of a modern Jane Austen tale, is marked by the distinct pains of youth, yet is presented with a whimsical, almost fantastical, undertone. The duo, portrayed with remarkable precision and dry wit by Duggan and Clear, spend their days engaged in activities like lacrosse, traversing their school's sprawling grounds with an air of practiced nonchalance, and, most notably, debating their aspirations. Minna's existential query about their post-Oxbridge future—"Maybe we'll just die," Flic retorts—encapsulates the heightened emotional stakes of their adolescent existence.
Driven by a desire to become "worldly" beyond academic achievements, Flic and Minna embark on an unconventional quest: to engage in a Shakespearean romance and fall in love. Their ambitious plan involves auditioning for "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and deliberately choosing the first person they encounter as the object of their affections. However, this seemingly straightforward endeavor quickly unravels. Flic finds herself cast as a mere tree, while Minna secures the coveted role of Titania, the Queen of Fairies. Their romantic pursuits become complicated as they fixate on their geography teacher, Miss Delavigne, played with charming nervousness by Alice Englert. Their attempts to orchestrate an invitation to Miss Delavigne's cottage, under the guise of academic research, highlight their youthful naivety and burgeoning curiosity about love and relationships. As rehearsals commence and male peers enter their social circle, the delicate balance of their codependent friendship is further challenged, leading to moments of both profound connection and painful estrangement.
Manners skillfully orchestrates the film, dividing it into chapters akin to a theatrical play, allowing the natural chemistry between Duggan and Clear to flourish. Their performances convey the intense, almost romantic, nature of adolescent best friendships, a bond so consuming that it feels like a singular, defining experience. The director's perceptive camera work shines in wordless sequences, particularly as the girls subtly attempt to charm their teacher with longing glances, adding layers of humor and tenderness. The film's musical selections, ranging from classical pieces to classic rock, subtly underscore its timeless quality, resisting any explicit period setting. This deliberate ambiguity enhances the universal resonance of Flic and Minna's journey, making their experiences feel both specific and broadly relatable.
Ultimately, "Extra Geography" is a poignant and witty exploration of the tumultuous journey through adolescence, emphasizing the profound impact of early female friendships. It sensitively portrays the anxieties and uncertainties of youth, offering a narrative rich in empathy and British comedic flair. The film thoughtfully delves into the complexities of growing up, showcasing the humor and tenderness found within the often bewildering transition from girlhood to young adulthood.