I have 3 little ones. Two boys and a girl. On one hand, I'd never want my sons to be accused of or punished for something they DIDN'T do, on the other hand I'd never want anything to happen to my daughter & then especially no one believe her. I myself went through my own "event" at a Halloween party almost ten years ago when I was a young 20 year old girl. I think what hurts more than the actual night, and the person who did it, it's all the family and close friends who didn't believe me, ignored me, or even blamed me. After a while you just stop talking about it. You shut it away. & Then this brilliant movie comes into your life. This movie sends two clear messages: It doesn't matter what you were wearing, how much you had to drink, your past relationships, if you made the first move... If you weren't cognitive enough to make a consensual choice, or you said no, or you fought it, seriously it WAS NOT your fault. And the other clear message, she gave each guy in the movie a chance to do the right thing and they chose not to. They actively chose to make the wrong choice. So, they were completely at fault and deserved their day of reckoning. I only wish I had a friend even half the character Cassie is in this movie. My best friend since we were children said it was my fault because I was dressed too sexy (I was dressed in a 1920's flapper costume from Walmart & had a hoodie on top of it). We haven't spoken in years because of that. Today, her words still haunt me more than that night and make me sick to my stomach. You're loved ones should have your back more than anyone. So the message of true devotion in friendship and sisterhood here was especially lovely. This isn't something that happens exclusively to only a certain type of woman, this happens to all women. & Movies like this will be how we put an end to it for our future, our children & loved ones.
962 Reviews
A sinister masterpiece
michael-kerrigan-526-12497430 May 2021
Wow - an acting masterclass from Carey Mulligan. And if this film can make one person think twice about taking advantage of someone who can't defend themself it has done it's job. But it's a lot more than a film that sends a powerful message. It is sinister entertainment at its best. Wonderful.
Not a movie but a mirror
matrixdukenukem26 January 2021
Best thing about this movie is, it doesn't try to be clever or something it's not. Or maybe it's Carey Mulligan. Can't decide. It's a straight forward no nonsense revenge thriller that isn't like I spit on your grave or rather Hard Candy (which I expected it to be). It's just a very simple collective of 5 part story told cohesively and many people (on both ends and in middle) will find relatable.
Special mention to the father daughter scene.
Very well written, well shot, directed, scored and acted movie. And yes negative reviews are trying to sound clever but everyone knows they saw themselves in there.
Special mention to the father daughter scene.
Very well written, well shot, directed, scored and acted movie. And yes negative reviews are trying to sound clever but everyone knows they saw themselves in there.
Refreshingly original, and unpredictable.
paulclaassen27 March 2023
Many of the modern vengeance films are brutal and gory; many boasts incredible fight sequences and stunts. 'Promising Young Woman' has neither of these traits. In fact, this is such a different vengeance movie, it is refreshingly original. I suppose in a way once could refer to it as psychological vengeance.
Carey Mulligan delivers a fantastic performance as Cassandra, the titular Promising Young Woman. Every week she goes to a club and pretend to be too drunk to stand. Every time a 'nice guy' picks her up, and is ready to take advantage of a drunk woman. Then, at the most awkward moment, these 'nice guys' then find out the girl is not drunk - and she rightfully puts them in their place. The film also serves as a warning to guys who take advantage of drunk women. (Hell, are straight guys really such douce bags???)
Seven years ago, Cassandra and her best friend Nina dropped out of med school after a tragic incident. She now works in a coffee shop whilst planning her revenge on the perpetrators. The film takes its time telling us exactly what happened to Nina, and I found this very effective. I enjoyed this mystery element. The entire time I was aware something terrible happened but didn't know what until it was revealed. I rather liked this approach.
The love interest comes in the form of pediatrician Ryan (Bo Burnham), who went to med school with Cassandra. Its not your average romance story, and I enjoyed this approach, too. 'Promising Young Woman' is not really a fast-paced movie, but its not slow either - and I was captivated all the way.
There are many twists and turns and events I never saw coming. The film does not have the ending I was hoping for, but I'm not going to do spoilers. Let's just say this is a very good and very realistic vengeance movie with a great script, and it most certainly is unpredictable! I do believe women will relate more to the film than men, but either way, this was an entertaining watch. The film also highlighted issues that might make you ponder on afterwards.
Carey Mulligan delivers a fantastic performance as Cassandra, the titular Promising Young Woman. Every week she goes to a club and pretend to be too drunk to stand. Every time a 'nice guy' picks her up, and is ready to take advantage of a drunk woman. Then, at the most awkward moment, these 'nice guys' then find out the girl is not drunk - and she rightfully puts them in their place. The film also serves as a warning to guys who take advantage of drunk women. (Hell, are straight guys really such douce bags???)
Seven years ago, Cassandra and her best friend Nina dropped out of med school after a tragic incident. She now works in a coffee shop whilst planning her revenge on the perpetrators. The film takes its time telling us exactly what happened to Nina, and I found this very effective. I enjoyed this mystery element. The entire time I was aware something terrible happened but didn't know what until it was revealed. I rather liked this approach.
The love interest comes in the form of pediatrician Ryan (Bo Burnham), who went to med school with Cassandra. Its not your average romance story, and I enjoyed this approach, too. 'Promising Young Woman' is not really a fast-paced movie, but its not slow either - and I was captivated all the way.
There are many twists and turns and events I never saw coming. The film does not have the ending I was hoping for, but I'm not going to do spoilers. Let's just say this is a very good and very realistic vengeance movie with a great script, and it most certainly is unpredictable! I do believe women will relate more to the film than men, but either way, this was an entertaining watch. The film also highlighted issues that might make you ponder on afterwards.
Revenge has never been more colorful
rachellebogart15 January 2021
This movie blew me away.
I went through basically the entire range of emotions before the movie was even over. It hit on everything that's made me so angry for such a long time. It was a vessel of that rage and it felt so good to see it depicted. More than that though, it felt like a story about the deep love we have for our friends.
The message was amazing in my opinion.....and the ending was perfect!
As a guy I needed to see this
jerelinnanen19 March 2021
Just go see it with your mind open. Don't think about your own life, your ego or status. Let your guard down and take in the visually stunning genre glitch of a film Promising Young Woman is. Let it show you the Other Side.
It can help you understand so much. It can be painful, at first, but it allows you to have meaningful discussions with your friends. It's not about you. It's about the other 50% of the world's population that hadn't really had a voice before.
And what an terrifying, awesome voice it is. And only too justified.
It can help you understand so much. It can be painful, at first, but it allows you to have meaningful discussions with your friends. It's not about you. It's about the other 50% of the world's population that hadn't really had a voice before.
And what an terrifying, awesome voice it is. And only too justified.
Must watch!!
padawanmovies22 September 2021
The subject matter is still sadly something that still needs to be taken seriously in today's society. Needs to be shown especially to college & high school students. Carrie did such a great job, I've never seen her play anything similar to this.
Very dark
nsfedyszyn29 December 2020
Debut efforts have no business being this good
jtindahouse3 January 2021
I watched a lot of films in 2020 (167 to be exact) and gave only one of them a perfect 10/10 score. It took exactly one film in 2021 to match that. A sign of good things ahead hopefully. 'Promising Young Woman' is one of those rare treats of a film where you simply don't want it to end. Every aspect of it is perfect. Here's the kicker though - I couldn't wait to find out who the writer/director was afterwards. To my astonishment it was a debut effort from Emerald Fennell. Incredible stuff.
Where to begin with this film? I think my single favourite thing about it was the dialogue. It was so exquisitely written (and performed for that matter). So many films lack any imagination in their dialogue these days, but not this film. It can be charming, charismatic, intriguing, thoughtful, funny and a hundred things in between. Also the music in this movie was perfect. I particularly loved the Toxic instrumental and the use of Angel of the Morning at the end. This is a soundtrack I would buy.
I was aware of Carey Mulligan before this film, but incredibly I had never seen a single one of her films or television shows. I was blown away by how talented she is. The range she shows in one single character in 'Promising Young Woman' is almost beyond belief. I'm not sure if this is the type of film the Academy would ever recognise a performance in, but they absolutely should.
I can't say enough goods things about this movie. It hits every note perfectly. 'Promising Young Woman' was an absolute pleasure to sit through and a film that you simply can't afford to miss.
Where to begin with this film? I think my single favourite thing about it was the dialogue. It was so exquisitely written (and performed for that matter). So many films lack any imagination in their dialogue these days, but not this film. It can be charming, charismatic, intriguing, thoughtful, funny and a hundred things in between. Also the music in this movie was perfect. I particularly loved the Toxic instrumental and the use of Angel of the Morning at the end. This is a soundtrack I would buy.
I was aware of Carey Mulligan before this film, but incredibly I had never seen a single one of her films or television shows. I was blown away by how talented she is. The range she shows in one single character in 'Promising Young Woman' is almost beyond belief. I'm not sure if this is the type of film the Academy would ever recognise a performance in, but they absolutely should.
I can't say enough goods things about this movie. It hits every note perfectly. 'Promising Young Woman' was an absolute pleasure to sit through and a film that you simply can't afford to miss.
Very, Very Good (And different)
sweetemotion228 December 2020
It's a comedy, but not really.
It's a thriller, but not really.
There's a romantic element, but it's certainly not a romance film.
I'm not sure exactly how to describe it, except to say that this film crosses several genres, and that I thought it was very creative and interesting. It reminded me a little of 'A Simple Favor', except not quite so dark.
Carey Mulligan is superb. Bo Burnham is very funny. I wanted to punch nearly every other male character in the film.
It's a thriller, but not really.
There's a romantic element, but it's certainly not a romance film.
I'm not sure exactly how to describe it, except to say that this film crosses several genres, and that I thought it was very creative and interesting. It reminded me a little of 'A Simple Favor', except not quite so dark.
Carey Mulligan is superb. Bo Burnham is very funny. I wanted to punch nearly every other male character in the film.
Good topic and concept, unfinished execution
vithiet27 January 2021
I salute the effort to treat a topic too few movies are willing to tackle. But everything from the teasers to the promotion (imagery, posters, etc.) led me to believe the movie would push the concept a lot further than it did.. In the end I feel this would have made more of an impact if it had either gone a more serious/conservative and realistic route (some situations are quite implausible), OR the complete opposite, with someone being pushed over the edge and devolving into madness/violence a la Joker/John Wick. As it stands the movie is too middle of the road, not knowing what it wants to be, just like the main character and it left me unsatisfied.
A must watch movie.
Sleepin_Dragon8 July 2023
Cass plays the part of the drunken, incapacitated party girl very, she seems to have one mission, stopping men that would take advantage of the situation, however she has one singular mission, revenge.
This is a terrific story of revenge and consent. It's one of the best films I have seen for some time, no wonder it received to much praise, and so many nominations.
I wonder if they'd thought about making this a slasher movie at any point, vibes of Killing Eve and I spit on your grave, without the gore. Twist after twist, it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This is one of those films that should be shown to teenagers, and young adults. It shows one thing, not all predators are alike, and they'll always have people who facilitate their behaviour. It also aims to show exactly what is meant by consent.
You'll reach a point in the movie where you'll think it's over, but it isn't, there's another huge twist coming your way, I didn't see it coming.
The one question this raises, is Cass a bad guy or not, it led to a really interesting conversation among my friends, all sorts of opinions.
Oscar nominated for her role, Carey Milligan is fantastic, I've seen her in some great parts, but this must rank as one of her best, her character's development, and sudden shifts in behaviour are extraordinary.
Bo Burnham is excellent in support, he is so good as Cass's distraction, the supporting cast are on point.
Great movie.
9/10.
This is a terrific story of revenge and consent. It's one of the best films I have seen for some time, no wonder it received to much praise, and so many nominations.
I wonder if they'd thought about making this a slasher movie at any point, vibes of Killing Eve and I spit on your grave, without the gore. Twist after twist, it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This is one of those films that should be shown to teenagers, and young adults. It shows one thing, not all predators are alike, and they'll always have people who facilitate their behaviour. It also aims to show exactly what is meant by consent.
You'll reach a point in the movie where you'll think it's over, but it isn't, there's another huge twist coming your way, I didn't see it coming.
The one question this raises, is Cass a bad guy or not, it led to a really interesting conversation among my friends, all sorts of opinions.
Oscar nominated for her role, Carey Milligan is fantastic, I've seen her in some great parts, but this must rank as one of her best, her character's development, and sudden shifts in behaviour are extraordinary.
Bo Burnham is excellent in support, he is so good as Cass's distraction, the supporting cast are on point.
Great movie.
9/10.
It's not good enough
wwwzackkerizer3 July 2021
Disturbing
riico21 June 2021
I want to give it a low score for the second part of the movie but a high score for the overall quality. I was speechless and disturbed during the second part of the movie. This is a unique film, one that makes you feel bad.
Not just one story ... unfortunately
kosmasp26 August 2021
I reckon it is or will be easy to dismiss what happens here for some. Unfortunately that does not make the things that are depict in here untrue. From a male perspective you may see different valid points throughout this ... you may feel that certain things do not apply to you. And maybe they don't - that doesn't mean that they don't exist. I know it feels like I'm repeating myself ... something the movie does avoid.
Which is quite the feat, considering what it is about and how she goes on a hunt (prowl?) at nights ... I was not sure what she was doing and the movie did leave it upon a bit ... but it does clear up during the runtime. Now she is broken and we slowly get why that is. It is revealed in the right way, even while we do sort of know or feel that we know most of it.
What is a nice touch, we never see anything in that regard. There is no sleaze, there is no (visible) exploitation going on. That does not mean it is easy to watch ... or listen to what is happening. I personally am not a fan of the term feminist, but this movie may change your mind regarding that or other things.
There are borderline things happening and our main character is not perfect. That does not mean she does not deserve something good ... and it does look like she can have. If she can bring herself to let go ... on the other hand, there is more than meets the eye. Way more ... and the ending ... I'm not going to spoil it for you, but let's say I did not expect that at all.
Very well told and truths that do hurt ... but are essential to be seen ... and learned from (hopefully)
Which is quite the feat, considering what it is about and how she goes on a hunt (prowl?) at nights ... I was not sure what she was doing and the movie did leave it upon a bit ... but it does clear up during the runtime. Now she is broken and we slowly get why that is. It is revealed in the right way, even while we do sort of know or feel that we know most of it.
What is a nice touch, we never see anything in that regard. There is no sleaze, there is no (visible) exploitation going on. That does not mean it is easy to watch ... or listen to what is happening. I personally am not a fan of the term feminist, but this movie may change your mind regarding that or other things.
There are borderline things happening and our main character is not perfect. That does not mean she does not deserve something good ... and it does look like she can have. If she can bring herself to let go ... on the other hand, there is more than meets the eye. Way more ... and the ending ... I'm not going to spoil it for you, but let's say I did not expect that at all.
Very well told and truths that do hurt ... but are essential to be seen ... and learned from (hopefully)
A rather sad ending!!
maanasms9 March 2022
Within the first half of the film, promising young women fulfil the objective of creating a pleasant and engaging experience, but this influence fades as the film progresses. Because of which the ending feels quite dull even though it serves a good motive.
Powerful
gbill-7487726 August 2021
"I'm a nice guy."
"Are you?"
Carrie Mulligan is, as always, fantastic, and I love how 'Promising Young Woman' mixed in some elements of comedy and even romance into what was such a searing indictment of rape culture. For a film making such a strong statement, it's layered and intelligent, bringing out emotional aspects not usually present in revenge-type films. Instead of indulging in the bloodlust of a killing spree, it has her character trying to make others feel something - what it's like to be deceived, frightened, vulnerable, exploited, humiliated, or scarred for life.
The film goes after not just the bros who believe themselves to be nice guys and offer pathetic excuses for their behavior, but also the power structure protecting them, and it does so in a stylish way (that soundtrack!). The conversation with the dean of the medical school who looked the other way because she didn't want to """ruin a young man's life""" was particularly devastating, and yet isn't that what happens all the time? The film plays out in unexpected ways which is a part of its strength, and I was impressed that it threaded the needle between being depressing and uplifting. It felt emblematic of the era, and powerful.
Carrie Mulligan is, as always, fantastic, and I love how 'Promising Young Woman' mixed in some elements of comedy and even romance into what was such a searing indictment of rape culture. For a film making such a strong statement, it's layered and intelligent, bringing out emotional aspects not usually present in revenge-type films. Instead of indulging in the bloodlust of a killing spree, it has her character trying to make others feel something - what it's like to be deceived, frightened, vulnerable, exploited, humiliated, or scarred for life.
The film goes after not just the bros who believe themselves to be nice guys and offer pathetic excuses for their behavior, but also the power structure protecting them, and it does so in a stylish way (that soundtrack!). The conversation with the dean of the medical school who looked the other way because she didn't want to """ruin a young man's life""" was particularly devastating, and yet isn't that what happens all the time? The film plays out in unexpected ways which is a part of its strength, and I was impressed that it threaded the needle between being depressing and uplifting. It felt emblematic of the era, and powerful.
A tour de force performance by Mulligan
andrewimcdiarmid11 March 2023
At first I wasn't quite sure where this movie was going, even after reading the plot line on IMDB. There were so many directions this could have gone from the exaggerated cartoon like portrayal to the mundane, but if you got the feeling the lack of predictability was going to be what kept you around, you'd have been right.
First off, Carrie Mulligan has become one of those actors that doesn't seem to do bad movies, so when you see she's in a film, you count on it being good. She is a tour de force in this film. From start to finish, she displays such human qualities on an almost unconsciously precise level. You can see her as a caring person, loving person and hurt person, but also as a sociopath and someone so dangerously close to the edge you're not entirely confident she won't or hasn't already gone over it or how far she'll end up going if she does.
That's the beauty of this film, is it keeps you guessing. It's not impossible to see some of the twists it takes, you will likely say once or twice that you saw whatever happens coming, but that's much like life itself, no one existence is totally unpredictable or predictable. This is also what makes this so good as well, the relatability of something most viewers have never been through. This movie tells the story without giving away the entire story until it's time for the viewer to know, a very powerful tool. Warning, there are some fairly graphic parts, some drawn out parts of the gruesome details of the story, but they appear at the climax of the story and serve to punctuate a point rather than try and glorify something grotesque.
There were a couple of small things that did suffer from some exaggeration. The boss at the coffee shop interrogating the boyfriend was a bit overdone, as was the conversation between Casie and Madison (the second one), but with the coffee shop boss you would assume it's because they care and the Madison conversation because they just want to move on from it. Either way, small details in an otherwise great movie.
A good cast of characters playing a wide display of not so great people in an amazing movie. For some reason I also enjoyed it being set in Ohio. Made it seem more human. The way it was filmed focused very heavily on the story, rather than the background, but having Ohio as the backdrop deglamorized it and made it human.
Great flick. Check it out.
First off, Carrie Mulligan has become one of those actors that doesn't seem to do bad movies, so when you see she's in a film, you count on it being good. She is a tour de force in this film. From start to finish, she displays such human qualities on an almost unconsciously precise level. You can see her as a caring person, loving person and hurt person, but also as a sociopath and someone so dangerously close to the edge you're not entirely confident she won't or hasn't already gone over it or how far she'll end up going if she does.
That's the beauty of this film, is it keeps you guessing. It's not impossible to see some of the twists it takes, you will likely say once or twice that you saw whatever happens coming, but that's much like life itself, no one existence is totally unpredictable or predictable. This is also what makes this so good as well, the relatability of something most viewers have never been through. This movie tells the story without giving away the entire story until it's time for the viewer to know, a very powerful tool. Warning, there are some fairly graphic parts, some drawn out parts of the gruesome details of the story, but they appear at the climax of the story and serve to punctuate a point rather than try and glorify something grotesque.
There were a couple of small things that did suffer from some exaggeration. The boss at the coffee shop interrogating the boyfriend was a bit overdone, as was the conversation between Casie and Madison (the second one), but with the coffee shop boss you would assume it's because they care and the Madison conversation because they just want to move on from it. Either way, small details in an otherwise great movie.
A good cast of characters playing a wide display of not so great people in an amazing movie. For some reason I also enjoyed it being set in Ohio. Made it seem more human. The way it was filmed focused very heavily on the story, rather than the background, but having Ohio as the backdrop deglamorized it and made it human.
Great flick. Check it out.
Promising but doesn't quite nail it
stephenstephenbyrne31 January 2021
I went into this expecting (based on some of the marketing) some splatfest revenge thriller. I was happy when I got in and discovered it was a much more sophisticated balancing act. A look at a character, exploring trauma, mixing in heavy amounts of drama and satire along with some very neat cinematogrpahy. It has interesting observations and things to say about lasting emotional damage and what it can do to a person. It's dark. But it's also really funny and sweet too. A black comedy with a bubble gum pop sheen and a lot heart.
But the movie gets to a point where it has to make a decision about what kind of film it wants to be, and the direction it chooses to go at that point lost me a bit. I wanted the film to dig deeper into the character herself. In the latter half it feels like it throws that out the window and decides to revert to that more traditional revenge thriller, albeit with some ~twists~. But that just wasn't as interesting to me and went back on some of what it had accomplished up to that point.
But the movie gets to a point where it has to make a decision about what kind of film it wants to be, and the direction it chooses to go at that point lost me a bit. I wanted the film to dig deeper into the character herself. In the latter half it feels like it throws that out the window and decides to revert to that more traditional revenge thriller, albeit with some ~twists~. But that just wasn't as interesting to me and went back on some of what it had accomplished up to that point.
The screenplay is undeniably brilliant...
punch8729 January 2023
Why won't the studio system make more movies like Emerald Fennell's Promising Young Woman? It's the type of work that can please everyone, from the casual movie fan to film aficionados, while having something to say in the process. It is the type of daring, innovative genre-bending film Hollywood needs to make more of. It's a blend of revenge thrills and pitch-black dark comedy, all packaged within a Barbie's Dreamhouse box set. It is practically addictive. It's a wicked film. Brave, ambitious, and one of the year's very best.
Promising Young Woman tells the story of Cassie (Wildlife's Carey Mulligan), a former med student who dropped out. She now works in a coffee shop with Gail (Laverne Cox) and lives at home with her bewildered parents (Jennifer Coolidge and Clancy Brown). Cassie dresses like Barbie during the day, but Lana Turner at night. At the same time, she also loves to play possum, acting drunk, and luring in men like the rape minded lemmings (played by a series of actors that include Adam Brody, Sam, Richardson, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse to name a few).
This all seems to be a sociological experiment of sorts for Cassie. Or is it? Is she just putting herself in harm's way to see if chivalry is dead? Teaching a bunch of yuppie frat boys a lesson? Or is there a bigger plan? This is a dangerous game she is playing, which is her only motivation at the moment. That is until she reconnects with Ryan (Eighth Grade's Bo Burnham, with charm to spare here), her former med student classmate with a heart of gold. The now pediatric surgeon wants to finally pursue his school crush. Ryan also may offer Cassie some much-needed light at the end of the tunnel.
Who needs men when you can have an army of women? That was the thought that went through my head when the credits rolled on Fennel's contemporary classic. The writer and director's clever and cunning screenplay is an eclectic mix of dark comic thrills. Cassie plays the game like a Grandmaster chess player. She is always a half-dozen steps ahead of her opponent(s). Fennel's narrative flips the script on the embarrassment and shame women feel after sexual assault. By contrast, showing the viewer how she victimizes and avenges her dark past by giving the boys a little slice, obviously not comparable, of their own medicine.
Some may argue that Promising Young Woman's shift in tone is an issue that prevents the film from executing its message. I would argue that point, vehemently. The reason that #MeToo was a major part of the social justice movements of the past decade is the unreported sexual assaults. Only 11% of sexual assaults are reported from women that happen in college. Even less if you are a minority. Additionally, only 2% of them are reported when alcohol or drugs are involved. Can you imagine not receiving help when experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety? Panic attacks, shame, anger control issues, irritability, depression, and suicide are all consequences of PTSD. Furthermore, the overall tone of the film mimics the highs and lows of mental health brilliantly.
Of course, the film is shouldered by Mulligan. Talk about avenging one of the most frustratingly bizarre Oscar nomination omissions the past decade when left off for her performance in 2018's Wildlife. Ultimately, she gives one of the year's best performances and it will surely be remembered as an iconic one. It's a towering turn, a resilient one, that pushes boundaries of what will surely make mass audiences engaged and even uncomfortable. Cassie is a role that will be mulled over for years to come. You simply can't picture anyone else in this role other than Mulligan. Cassie would make Harley Quinn proud and some could argue it could be her origin story.
We have been waiting for Promising Young Woman for almost a year. This proves patience is a virtue. Very rarely do films lives up to the hype and Fennel's film does with exhilarating results. Films are a product of their time. I have mentioned a handful of times in reviews the words of Aaron Sorkin, "The things we do to women," and I can't think of a film that encompasses that phrase more.
Promising Young Woman tops them all. It's brave, inventive, and daring. It's a wickedly dark comedy that will redefine the upcoming decade in film.
Promising Young Woman tells the story of Cassie (Wildlife's Carey Mulligan), a former med student who dropped out. She now works in a coffee shop with Gail (Laverne Cox) and lives at home with her bewildered parents (Jennifer Coolidge and Clancy Brown). Cassie dresses like Barbie during the day, but Lana Turner at night. At the same time, she also loves to play possum, acting drunk, and luring in men like the rape minded lemmings (played by a series of actors that include Adam Brody, Sam, Richardson, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse to name a few).
This all seems to be a sociological experiment of sorts for Cassie. Or is it? Is she just putting herself in harm's way to see if chivalry is dead? Teaching a bunch of yuppie frat boys a lesson? Or is there a bigger plan? This is a dangerous game she is playing, which is her only motivation at the moment. That is until she reconnects with Ryan (Eighth Grade's Bo Burnham, with charm to spare here), her former med student classmate with a heart of gold. The now pediatric surgeon wants to finally pursue his school crush. Ryan also may offer Cassie some much-needed light at the end of the tunnel.
Who needs men when you can have an army of women? That was the thought that went through my head when the credits rolled on Fennel's contemporary classic. The writer and director's clever and cunning screenplay is an eclectic mix of dark comic thrills. Cassie plays the game like a Grandmaster chess player. She is always a half-dozen steps ahead of her opponent(s). Fennel's narrative flips the script on the embarrassment and shame women feel after sexual assault. By contrast, showing the viewer how she victimizes and avenges her dark past by giving the boys a little slice, obviously not comparable, of their own medicine.
Some may argue that Promising Young Woman's shift in tone is an issue that prevents the film from executing its message. I would argue that point, vehemently. The reason that #MeToo was a major part of the social justice movements of the past decade is the unreported sexual assaults. Only 11% of sexual assaults are reported from women that happen in college. Even less if you are a minority. Additionally, only 2% of them are reported when alcohol or drugs are involved. Can you imagine not receiving help when experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety? Panic attacks, shame, anger control issues, irritability, depression, and suicide are all consequences of PTSD. Furthermore, the overall tone of the film mimics the highs and lows of mental health brilliantly.
Of course, the film is shouldered by Mulligan. Talk about avenging one of the most frustratingly bizarre Oscar nomination omissions the past decade when left off for her performance in 2018's Wildlife. Ultimately, she gives one of the year's best performances and it will surely be remembered as an iconic one. It's a towering turn, a resilient one, that pushes boundaries of what will surely make mass audiences engaged and even uncomfortable. Cassie is a role that will be mulled over for years to come. You simply can't picture anyone else in this role other than Mulligan. Cassie would make Harley Quinn proud and some could argue it could be her origin story.
We have been waiting for Promising Young Woman for almost a year. This proves patience is a virtue. Very rarely do films lives up to the hype and Fennel's film does with exhilarating results. Films are a product of their time. I have mentioned a handful of times in reviews the words of Aaron Sorkin, "The things we do to women," and I can't think of a film that encompasses that phrase more.
Promising Young Woman tops them all. It's brave, inventive, and daring. It's a wickedly dark comedy that will redefine the upcoming decade in film.
angel in the morning
ferguson-623 December 2020
Greetings again from the darkness. "Revenge is a dish best served cold." The protagonist in writer-director Emerald Fennell's ("Killing Eve") feature film debut is a woman on a mission to avenge not just what happened to her friend, but also change the mentality of predatory men ... one "nice guy" at a time. She is a #MeToo heat-seeking missile.
Carey Mulligan stars as Cassie, and when we first see her, she appears to be nearing blackout mode while drinking alone on a bench inside a bar. Most people have hobbies like crochet or golf. Cassie's hobby, or maybe mission is a better word, is to lure men, with the appearance of a drunken easy score, and then scare them straight into respecting boundaries. She's a non-violent vigilante (as opposed to Beatrix Kiddo) for morality and respect towards women.
As the film progresses, we pick up bits about what traumatized her to this extent. It turns out her best friend Nina was victimized by a group of men from their law school class. See, Cassie is the titular 'promising young woman' whose career dreams were dashed over what happened to her friend. Now, Cassie works in a coffee shop with a supportive and wise-cracking friend Gail (Laverne Cox, "Orange is the New Black"), who knows nothing of Cassie's hobby ... and neither do Cassie's parents (Jennifer Coolidge, Clancy Brown) who can't help but wonder what happened to their bright, ambitious daughter, and why she still lives at home with them.
Cassie's mission gets momentarily de-railed when former classmate Ryan (an excellent Bo Burnham, THE BIG SICK) pops in to the coffee shop and awkwardly proclaims his long-time distant crush on her. The two are clumsy and believable together, and their relationship has more ups and downs than a pogo stick. For most movies, this would be enough to hold our attention, but not for ambitious filmmaker Fennell who has much more to offer. There is a cleverness to the presentation with four specific segments: a friend who didn't believe her (Alison Brie), the law school dean who didn't want to ruin a boy's future (Connie Britton), a regretful defense attorney who took the money (Alfred Molina), and a bachelor party that gathers those who make up her nightmare.
Ms. Fennell is also an actor (and has a cameo in this one), and it's clear she has a real feel for putting actors in the best position to maximize a scene. Of course, Ms. Mulligan is an outstanding actor on her own, but the actors benefit from Ms. Fennell's work. Other supporting work is provided by Adam Brody, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Molly Shannon, Chris Lowell, and Sam Richardson. The color palette is similar to an early Tim Burton movie, and in fact, Cassie's home looks like a museum or possibly a middle-class Liberace setting.
There is a lot going on here, and some of it is quite uncomfortable - and sprinkled with dark humor in unexpected moments. Advice like "move on" and excuses like "we were kids" ring hollow to Cassie, who carries some guilt over what happened to Nina, and remains focused on attacking a system that enables inexcusable behavior. Ms. Mulligan embraces a character who possesses raw nerves and emotions she sometimes hides, while other times flashes in neon. This isn't about a guy here or there who takes advantage, but rather a faulty system that protects these guys at the expense of victims. The ending is unusual and unexpected, and kudos to an exciting new filmmaker. In theaters December 25, 2020
Carey Mulligan stars as Cassie, and when we first see her, she appears to be nearing blackout mode while drinking alone on a bench inside a bar. Most people have hobbies like crochet or golf. Cassie's hobby, or maybe mission is a better word, is to lure men, with the appearance of a drunken easy score, and then scare them straight into respecting boundaries. She's a non-violent vigilante (as opposed to Beatrix Kiddo) for morality and respect towards women.
As the film progresses, we pick up bits about what traumatized her to this extent. It turns out her best friend Nina was victimized by a group of men from their law school class. See, Cassie is the titular 'promising young woman' whose career dreams were dashed over what happened to her friend. Now, Cassie works in a coffee shop with a supportive and wise-cracking friend Gail (Laverne Cox, "Orange is the New Black"), who knows nothing of Cassie's hobby ... and neither do Cassie's parents (Jennifer Coolidge, Clancy Brown) who can't help but wonder what happened to their bright, ambitious daughter, and why she still lives at home with them.
Cassie's mission gets momentarily de-railed when former classmate Ryan (an excellent Bo Burnham, THE BIG SICK) pops in to the coffee shop and awkwardly proclaims his long-time distant crush on her. The two are clumsy and believable together, and their relationship has more ups and downs than a pogo stick. For most movies, this would be enough to hold our attention, but not for ambitious filmmaker Fennell who has much more to offer. There is a cleverness to the presentation with four specific segments: a friend who didn't believe her (Alison Brie), the law school dean who didn't want to ruin a boy's future (Connie Britton), a regretful defense attorney who took the money (Alfred Molina), and a bachelor party that gathers those who make up her nightmare.
Ms. Fennell is also an actor (and has a cameo in this one), and it's clear she has a real feel for putting actors in the best position to maximize a scene. Of course, Ms. Mulligan is an outstanding actor on her own, but the actors benefit from Ms. Fennell's work. Other supporting work is provided by Adam Brody, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Molly Shannon, Chris Lowell, and Sam Richardson. The color palette is similar to an early Tim Burton movie, and in fact, Cassie's home looks like a museum or possibly a middle-class Liberace setting.
There is a lot going on here, and some of it is quite uncomfortable - and sprinkled with dark humor in unexpected moments. Advice like "move on" and excuses like "we were kids" ring hollow to Cassie, who carries some guilt over what happened to Nina, and remains focused on attacking a system that enables inexcusable behavior. Ms. Mulligan embraces a character who possesses raw nerves and emotions she sometimes hides, while other times flashes in neon. This isn't about a guy here or there who takes advantage, but rather a faulty system that protects these guys at the expense of victims. The ending is unusual and unexpected, and kudos to an exciting new filmmaker. In theaters December 25, 2020
Overrated Misfire
brandondugrey29 March 2021
The tag line for this movie is "Revenge Never Looked So Promising." But a more accurate tag would be: "Revenge Never Looked So Halfhearted."
Fennell's attempt at dark humour and social commentary falls flat at just about every turn. The screenplay is underdeveloped and loaded with plot holes (many of them defying all sense of logic); the characters are mostly stereotypes; the first shocking is twist all-too predictable; the direction is derivative of far more talented filmmakers and sluggish as well; and the second shocking twist in the denouement is both laughable and insulting at once.
I suspect the inspiration for this wildly uneven film came from three different sources. . .one from real life, the other two from fiction: Christine Blasey Ford's courageous testimony before the Senate Confirmation Committee, and the motion pictures "Elle" (a searing dramatic thriller about a rape victim bent on revenge) and "The Girl Most Likely To..." (a wickedly delicious dark comedy about a homely college girl who exacts revenge on her tormenters after reconstructive surgery turns her into a gorgeous bombshell).
The problem is, "Promising Young Woman" lacks the devastating poignancy of Dr. Ford's testimony, the simmering dark passion of "Elle", and the sheer joyful fortitude of "The Girl Most Likely To..." And so, in the final tally, it fails to deliver on all that promise.
It's worth noting that despite the film's many shortcomings, Carey Mulligan, Alison Brie, and Connie Britton all manage to deliver exceptional performances. Sadly, I will never get to see these performances again, because as good as they are, none warrant a repeat viewing of this disappointing misfire.
Fennell's attempt at dark humour and social commentary falls flat at just about every turn. The screenplay is underdeveloped and loaded with plot holes (many of them defying all sense of logic); the characters are mostly stereotypes; the first shocking is twist all-too predictable; the direction is derivative of far more talented filmmakers and sluggish as well; and the second shocking twist in the denouement is both laughable and insulting at once.
I suspect the inspiration for this wildly uneven film came from three different sources. . .one from real life, the other two from fiction: Christine Blasey Ford's courageous testimony before the Senate Confirmation Committee, and the motion pictures "Elle" (a searing dramatic thriller about a rape victim bent on revenge) and "The Girl Most Likely To..." (a wickedly delicious dark comedy about a homely college girl who exacts revenge on her tormenters after reconstructive surgery turns her into a gorgeous bombshell).
The problem is, "Promising Young Woman" lacks the devastating poignancy of Dr. Ford's testimony, the simmering dark passion of "Elle", and the sheer joyful fortitude of "The Girl Most Likely To..." And so, in the final tally, it fails to deliver on all that promise.
It's worth noting that despite the film's many shortcomings, Carey Mulligan, Alison Brie, and Connie Britton all manage to deliver exceptional performances. Sadly, I will never get to see these performances again, because as good as they are, none warrant a repeat viewing of this disappointing misfire.
The revenge thriller of the year!
nidhunmoviebuff21 April 2021
Promising Young Woman is a stunningly original revenge drama that shocks you, offers loads of dark humour and the same time makes you reassess every mildly sexist or politically incorrect statement/thought you have made/had in your life.
Director Emerald Fennel turns the mirror on all of us, ripping her narrative right from the headlines of famous sexual harassment stories happening around us.
Carey Mulligan is electric as the troubled 'Cassie', still reeling from the shock of losing her best friend. It is no surprise she got the nod for an Oscar Best Actress nomination.
Bo Burnham and Jennifer Coolidge shine in the supporting roles.
The best revenge thriller since Django Unchained for me. Two hours went by so fast, I didn't even realise it.
A must watch!
#MovieReview #SpoilerFree #OscarsBinge #PromisingYoungWoman #OscarNomineeForBestPicture.
Director Emerald Fennel turns the mirror on all of us, ripping her narrative right from the headlines of famous sexual harassment stories happening around us.
Carey Mulligan is electric as the troubled 'Cassie', still reeling from the shock of losing her best friend. It is no surprise she got the nod for an Oscar Best Actress nomination.
Bo Burnham and Jennifer Coolidge shine in the supporting roles.
The best revenge thriller since Django Unchained for me. Two hours went by so fast, I didn't even realise it.
A must watch!
#MovieReview #SpoilerFree #OscarsBinge #PromisingYoungWoman #OscarNomineeForBestPicture.
"Promising Young Woman Review"
actualbookworm16 January 2021
there are times when getting tough is the only option
lee_eisenberg16 December 2021
Emerald Fennell's Oscar-winning "Promising Young Woman" is the perfect movie for the MeToo era. Carey Mulligan stars as the protagonist, who lures sexual predators into unpleasant situations.
This is Fennell's directorial debut, and I'm now eager to see her future work. Fennell uses clever tricks to tell the story and identify the protagonist's mindset (much like how Hitchcock and Kubrick did).
All in all, this is a movie that everyone should see. Mind you, it DOES have intense scenes. As long as you can tolerate those, you'll like the movie (understanding of course, that it has a serious subject matter). Definitely see it.
This is Fennell's directorial debut, and I'm now eager to see her future work. Fennell uses clever tricks to tell the story and identify the protagonist's mindset (much like how Hitchcock and Kubrick did).
All in all, this is a movie that everyone should see. Mind you, it DOES have intense scenes. As long as you can tolerate those, you'll like the movie (understanding of course, that it has a serious subject matter). Definitely see it.
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