Low Low

Low Low is a 2019 film that stands as a raw and realistic depiction of girlhood on the precipice of adulthood. The film offers an authentic look at the struggles that four young women grapple with as they navigate the tumultuous landscape of adolescence and the trials, tribulations, and seemingly minute yet significant decisions that go hand in hand with it.

Directed by Nick Richey, Low Low pulls no punches in portraying an unadulterated reflection of youth. Unlike most films portraying adolescence as a shiny, superficial depiction, Low Low goes the extra mile to add depth, presenting the gritty and often complex aspects of growing up, thus making it a more relatable and resonating film.

The main cast features Ali Richey, Alexis Raich, Kacie Rogers, and Montana Roesch as the four leading ladies. These young women teeter on the cusp of adulthood, weathering the curious in-between stage that is filled with confusion and unforeseen hurdles. As they prepare to graduate from high school, each girl battles her own unique set of challenges, from strained friendships, divergent futures, familial issues, to the pressures of emerging sexuality and the socio-economic hardships intruding on their lives.

Ali Richey plays Ryan, an intelligent girl with a promising future who has to navigate the intricacies and pressures of a lower-income household. Alexis Raich embodies Cherry, a fierce young woman who bounces between rehab centers, and is consistently pulled between her desire for independence and the urge to escape her surroundings.

Kacie Rogers plays Heather, an athletic star and the seeming epitome of high school popularity, yet underneath the veneer, she is embroiled with her own battle of self-identity and acceptance. The circle of friends is completed by Montana Roesch as Crystal, an uber-religious girl who must reconcile her faith with the realities of being a teenager in a modern world.

From the enriched customization of each character, it’s evident that these four young women are not cookie-cutter high school students, but rather decisions that alter the course of their lives. There is an underline theme of socio-economic factors, where these young women, bound by the ties of their underprivileged socio-economic backgrounds, are forced to make decisions that are typically reserved for those well-beyond their age.

Visually, the film is gritty and raw, the cinematography lending itself to the film's overall sense of sincerity. Absent are the saturated colors often associated with films of this genre; instead, Low Low opts for a more realistic approach. The locations genuinely depict the lower strata of the urban American neighborhood. The soundtrack of the movie is also noteworthy, adding depth and a sense of reality to the scenes.

Low Low successfully shows that girlhood is not solely highlighted with makeup parties, prom nights, and sweet romances - it is also filled with hardships, tough decisions, and the stark realities of life.

The overarching theme of the movie resounds with the viewers because it's not just about growing up; it's about the growth of character despite challenging circumstances. It’s about navigating the winding roads of life while on the brink of adulthood. And while these situations differ, what unites them is the shared space of adolescence: a time characterized by uncertainty, high stakes, and life-defining decisions.

The movie is empathetic and understanding of its subjects, neither glamorizing nor undermining their struggles. Despite dealing with real-world issues that seem heavy for such young shoulders, there are also moments of levity, humor, and the quintessential essence of being a teenager that nicely balance the movie.

In conclusion, Low Low serves as an almost documentary-like insight into the lives of four young women, flawlessly capturing their struggles and victories. It’s depiction of the visceral, poignant, humorous, saddening, and ultimately, hopeful journey into adulthood offers a rewarding viewing experience. Even though it may be set within the realm of lower socio-economic status, the issues it highlights are universal. The film sits on the thin line that separates girlhood from womanhood, offering an insightful and thought-provoking commentary on the process of growing up.