“In some ways, a lot has changed and, in some ways, nothing has changed at all.” Amy Poehler recently used this line while promoting the Netflix movie she has directed and starred in. The above line fits quite perfectly with the premise of the film. There is a high school that acknowledges and is aware of the wider societal issues but nonetheless does not fully understand or execute them. The students are rampant in carrying out activities they deem unharming, with ignorance running wide among teachers and the principal alike. In this backdrop, Vivian (Hadley Robinson) finds herself enraged and wanting to do something about the toxic and dilapidating culture at her school. After getting inspired by her mother, Lisa (Amy Poehler), and her rebellious past, the shy & quiet Vivian takes matters into her own hands initially starting a zine and ultimately driving a school-wide revolution.
Surrendering to the sign of the times, with Moxie Netflix hopes to be at the helm of such movies that carry a deeper meaning and inspire the youth. Sometimes such movies get carried away with their purpose of conveying the message and ignore the story. But Moxie does not succumb to that and produces a fantastic story. Hadley Robinson leading the young cast portrays her character very well, at times carrying the movie by herself. Amy Poehler may not be the best casting choice, but at least she does her directing job fairly well. Lastly, there is a great evolution of the character’s which is not only showcased by their stories but is also portrayed well on screen.
As far as conveying the message goes, Moxie does that without any complaints. However, it does have a few shortcomings. Firstly, there is a sense of predictability as the movie continues which is never a good thing for any movie. The issue & problems the movie hopes to show in the high school are very subtly showed, it could have added a lot of value if it were done brazenly. Continuing, there was a lot more room to accommodate to address a few other issues and not simply tip-toeing slightly around one or two. The dialogs too could have been framed better with the screenplay including brave lines, there was something like a monologue but nothing significant that can be praised; maybe by choice owing to the young characters of the film. Finally, Amy Poehler’s character’s relevance initially is obvious and important but loses that value as the movie goes on.
While no movie is perfect on all accounts, don’t let yourself get swayed by its shortfalls to avoid the movie. Moxie is well created and delivers its message beautifully. For all types of audiences, it will be a wonderful watch, making you beg for more.
Acting- 7.5
Casting- 7
Cinematography- 8
Dialogue- 6.5
Directing- 8
Editing & Effects- 6
Sound & Music- 8
Story- 9.5
Storytelling- 7.5
Rating- 7.5
Available on: Netflix
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