Set against the backdrop of a strict Himalayan boarding school, Girls Will Be Girls follows 16-year-old Mira as she navigates the complexities of desire, rebellion, and her relationship with her mother, Anila. Preeti Panigrahi’s luminous portrayal of Mira earned her a World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award at Sundance, capturing the intelligence and vulnerability of a young girl on the cusp of adulthood. To bring such a deeply personal and impactful story to life, Shuchi Talati made a deliberate choice to work with an almost entirely female crew. This decision was rooted in her belief that, “In spaces which are more ‘male,’ women wear armour. But when we don’t have to fight for respect or be more masculine to be taken seriously, it opens up mental space, and we can get more done,” Talati explains. “And because the film is about a young girl’s sexuality, for me, it was very important to build a safe space where the cast could be vulnerable.” The impact of this supportive environment is evident in the performances, particularly in the synergy between the cast members. Kesav Binoy Kiron’s charismatic presence as Sri and Kani Kusruti’s astute portrayal of Anila bring additional layers of depth to the narrative. Talati’s fearless exploration of young female sexuality, presented with both frankness and tenderness, celebrates the freedom of self-acceptance and the power of female agency. This commitment to authenticity and empowerment resonates throughout the film, which has been widely praised for its bold storytelling. Girls Will Be Girls not only clinched the Audience Award at Sundance but also touched viewers with its universal themes. The film’s nuanced portrayal of adolescence, coupled with its female-led production, marks it as a standout in contemporary cinema.Raman Chawla