Miller’s Girl: A Tepid Thriller Lacking Pizzazz
Brace yourselves, cinephiles, for a cinematic disappointment that’s as bland as a bowl of unseasoned oatmeal. “Miller’s Girl,” a purported thriller that attempts to blend “Lolita” with a horror twist, stumbles and falls flat on its face, leaving viewers with a sour taste in their mouths.
Starring Jenna Ortega, the breakout star of Netflix’s “Wednesday,” and the usually dependable Martin Freeman, “Miller’s Girl” follows a teenage girl’s infatuation with her literature professor, blurring the lines between admiration and obsession. However, this tired concept, penned and directed by Jade Hadley Bartlett, fails to captivate audiences, resulting in a dull and forgettable cinematic experience.
The film’s attempt to explore forbidden desires and their dire consequences falls flatter than a pancake, lacking the necessary pizzazz to keep viewers engaged. Even the final-act twist fails to provide a genuine sense of surprise, leaving the audience feeling underwhelmed and cheated.
Martin Freeman, known for his acclaimed performances in “The Hobbit” and “Sherlock,” finds himself in a regrettable misstep with “Miller’s Girl.” While he is a talented actor, this film does little to showcase his abilities. Jenna Ortega, on the other hand, needs to exercise greater discernment in selecting her projects. While she possesses undeniable talent, her recent roles in “Wednesday,” the “Scream” series, and the upcoming “Beetlejuice 2” risk typecasting her as “the creepy girl.”
If you’re seeking a cinematic experience this weekend, steer clear of “Miller’s Girl” like a plague. Instead, consider films like “American Fiction,” “Poor Things,” “Godzilla Minus One,” “Wonka,” or even revisit classics like “Mean Girls” or “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.” You’d be better off staying home and watching paint dry than wasting your time and money on “Miller’s Girl.”
Grade: F
Local Theaters Offer Diverse Film Options
In contrast to the disappointment of “Miller’s Girl,” local theaters present a diverse array of enticing options for moviegoers.
New Releases:
– Miller’s Girl (R): A teenage girl develops an unhealthy obsession with her literature professor. (1 hr. 33 min)
– Fighter (NR): A compelling biopic about the life of a legendary boxer. (2 hr. 46 min)
Classic Corner:
– The Wizard of Oz (G): Celebrating its 85th anniversary, this timeless classic follows Dorothy’s adventures in the magical land of Oz. (1 hr. 42 min)
A Timeless Masterpiece: The Wizard of Oz
Among the golden age of Hollywood’s cinematic treasures, few films retain their captivating power over audiences like MGM’s 1939 classic, “The Wizard of Oz.” This enduring masterpiece continues to enchant both children and adults, transcending time with its timeless appeal.
In celebration of its 85th anniversary, the Malco Razorback in Fayetteville and the Malco Pinnacle Hills will host special screenings on Sunday at 1 p.m. and Monday at 7 p.m.
The film’s enduring charm lies in its enchanting fantasy world of Oz, rendered in vibrant Technicolor that rivals modern-day CGI. The exceptional talent of its cast, led by Judy Garland’s iconic performance as Dorothy Gale, ensures its relevance and watchability even in today’s cinematic landscape. Garland’s rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” remains the definitive version, against which all others are measured.
Margaret Hamilton’s portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West and Almira Gulch is nothing short of iconic. Her chilling performance and memorable lines, like “I’ll get you my pretties!” and the terrifying blue-hued flying monkeys, continue to send shivers down the spines of viewers.
Directed by Victor Fleming and based on the works of Frank L. Baum, “The Wizard of Oz” was once an annual springtime tradition, airing on CBS during the holiday season. However, the advent of home video diminished its exclusivity, making it more readily available to audiences.
Despite its accessibility, “The Wizard of Oz” retains its magic when experienced on the big screen. It offers a grand cinematic experience, particularly for young viewers encountering this cinematic triumph for the first time.
If you’ve never had the opportunity to see “The Wizard of Oz” in a theater, these special screenings provide an excellent chance to witness its enduring brilliance. Immerse yourself in the timeless tale of Dorothy’s journey and rediscover the magic that has captivated audiences for generations.