An imaginative teenage girl, living in a mystical and dangerous community built on a deserted drive-in movie lot along the Texas/Oklahoma border, struggles to realize her potential, and escape the world she was born into.
Angels in Stardust (2014) is a poignant, coming-of-age drama directed by William Robert Carey. Set in a dilapidated community along the Texas-Oklahoma border, it follows Vallie Sue, a creative and imaginative teenage girl, as she navigates the complexities of adolescence. Her life is marked by the rundown, mystical town of “Tardust,” a former drive-in movie lot now home to eccentric characters. Vallie Sue is caught between a neglectful mother, Tammy, and a host of other characters, including Tenkill, a mysterious Native American caretaker, and Mickey, a local troublemaker.
The plot unfolds with Vallie Sue’s desire to escape the constraints of her environment and find her place in the world. Through her rich imagination, she befriends an imaginary cowboy, who appears to her on an old movie screen, and grapples with real-life challenges. The film juxtaposes the tangible struggles of growing up in an unstable environment with the fantastical elements of Vallie Sue’s world.
The film explores several key themes:
- Identity and Imagination: Vallie Sue’s journey is shaped by her quest for identity, amplified by her vibrant imagination. Her fantasies are a refuge from the harsh realities of her life.
- Family Dynamics: The dysfunctional relationship with her self-absorbed mother and the contrast with the more grounded figures in her life (like Tenkill) highlights the importance of familial bonds.
- Escape and Transformation: Vallie Sue’s desire to escape the confines of her environment and her eventual self-discovery mirrors a universal coming-of-age story.
- Reality vs. Fantasy: The line between reality and fantasy blurs, particularly in the depiction of the imaginary cowboy and Vallie Sue’s emotional and spiritual growth.
Here are ten reasons to watch Angels in Stardust:
- Strong Female Lead: Vallie Sue’s character, portrayed by AJ Michalka, is complex and relatable, making her journey of self-discovery deeply engaging.
- Unique Setting: The setting of Tardust, an abandoned drive-in movie lot, adds a surreal, almost dreamlike quality to the film.
- Imaginative Storytelling: The film blends reality and fantasy, creating a captivating narrative that is both heartfelt and whimsical.
- Beautiful Cinematography: Alexandre Lehmann’s cinematography beautifully captures the wide-open landscapes, symbolizing Vallie Sue’s longing for freedom.
- Themes of Resilience: Despite the tough circumstances, Vallie Sue’s resilience and creative spirit shine through.
- Emotional Depth: The film touches on themes of family, loneliness, and self-acceptance, evoking a wide range of emotions.
- Strong Supporting Cast: Alicia Silverstone as Vallie Sue’s mother brings depth to her character, providing a nuanced portrayal of neglect and longing.
- A Southern Gothic Flair: The film’s atmosphere, steeped in Southern Gothic influences, gives it a unique, atmospheric feel.
- Cultural Exploration: The character of Tenkill, portrayed by Michael Spears, introduces elements of Native American culture and spirituality.
- A Personal Journey: Vallie Sue’s journey is one of transformation, offering an inspiring story of finding hope and strength amidst adversity.
After watching Angels in Stardust, you may feel a mix of emotions. The film’s tender and whimsical nature might leave you feeling introspective, contemplating themes of self-identity, the power of imagination, and the complexities of family relationships. Its beautiful but bittersweet portrayal of a young girl’s search for meaning will likely evoke both nostalgia and a sense of melancholy, along with a sense of hope as Vallie Sue’s character ultimately finds her way in the world
