Mary Jane's Not a Virgin Anymore

"Mary Jane's Not a Virgin Anymore" is a 1996 slice-of-life indie film, directed by Sarah Jacobson, and features an ensemble including Lisa Gerstein, Chris Enright, and Greg Cruikshank. The film was revered in the film festival circuit when it premiered and has since acquired a reputation for being unreserved in its exploration of teenage sexual discovery.

Set amidst the grunge era of the 1990s, the movie centers around Lisa Gerstein's character, Mary Jane, who's an introspective teenager grappling with the familiar issues of adolescence - insecurity, identity crisis, and the confusing, awkward journey of sexual awakening. She works at an art-house movie theater where she's surrounded by a motley crew of eccentric co-workers who provide her with diversely enlightening perspectives on life, love, and sexuality.

The narrative is driven not so much by plot progression as by Mary Jane's relatable internal conflict as she tries to navigate her blooming sexuality. Gerstein's portrayal of Mary Jane is sincere and genuine, which makes her journey both compelling and believable. She brings to life a full-bodied character who is curious, yet cautious, both wanting to fit in with her peers and trying to find her own identity.

'Dave', portrayed by Enright, is Mary Jane's co-worker and the lost and confused fixture of the story. His life experiences are atypical and serve not only as an exposition of a different route of life but also as a sounding board for Mary Jane's trials and tribulations. Over drunken conversations after shifts, Dave's honest and unpretentious discussions allow Mary Jane to delve deeper into her own curiosities and doubts.

Adding color to the film are Gerstein’s other co-stars, including Greg Cruikshank, who powerfully captures the lovable underachiever persona. Together, they perfectly illustrate the 90s grunge subculture, creating an engaging setting that grounds the story. The wonderful ensemble cast provides a rich tapestry of unique perspectives, aiding Mary Jane in dismantling the stereotypes of virginity and sexual conduct.

Sarah Jacobson's writing and directing stand out. She avoids the exploitative or overused clichés of teenage dramas. Instead, her storytelling assures coming-of-age stories that are raw, honest, and unpretentious. The scenes are crafted in such a way to evoke the messy reality of adolescence, riddling the audience with indirect questions about societal norms and hypocrisy in regards to sexuality.

Furthermore, the film is laudable for going beyond typical teen angst to demonstrate the dichotomy between societal expectations of young women and their individual desires and needs. It masterfully brings to the fore Mary Jane's strivings to break free from the societal confines of femininity, while also exploring her sexual journey in a realistic and compassionate manner.

Often compared to the poignant realism of early John Cassavetes and the rebellious spirit of riot grrrl aesthetics, Jacobson’s film captures the vulnerability and confusion of youth while unwaveringly presenting the empowerment of sexual self-realization. The film is a unique combination of punk aesthetics and a feminist narrative.

Originally shot on a 16mm film, "Mary Jane's Not a Virgin Anymore" is visually bold and raw, fitting seamlessly with the narrative's unaltered tone. The grainy film texture is reminiscent of the grunge and punk culture of the 90s era on display in the film, and it enhances the overall viewing experience.

The movie is accompanied by an eclectic soundtrack that brilliantly encapsulates the grunge era, brimming with the rebellious spirit and youthful angst that defined the 90s. The music, combined with the effortless, naturalistic dialogue, creates a balance between realism and cinematic expressionism.

In conclusion, "Mary Jane's Not a Virgin Anymore" is an audacious independent gem that offers a candid look at a teenage girl's sexual awakening. It's a rare film that attempts to dispel myths associated with adolescent sexuality, especially female sexuality, and invite conversations around a topic that society often shuns. It's an essential watch for anyone interested in exploring alternative, honest perspectives on coming-of-age narratives.