It’s a daunting task to try and break the mold of the high school coming-of-age film, let alone do it successfully. But every so often, a filmmaker takes the reins on the widely popular formula and dares to disrupt it without compromise, making for an unforgettable and expansive addition to the genre.
Everyone in Knives and Skin has something to hide. Joanna sells her mother’s underwear to older men, including her male teachers, in order to afford college application fees. Laurel tries to come to terms with her queer identity as a popular cheerleader in a rural town. And that sentiment goes twofold for the adults, who make glittery “missing girl” posters and sympathy casseroles to cover up their affairs, lost jobs, emotional abuse, and predatory behavior towards students.
Directed by Jennifer Reeder. 112 min. Opens at Music Box Theatre on 12/13
