Review of The Virgin Suicides (2000) by Zane U — 13 Oct 2009

It's an intensely tragic story that presents itself as avoidable, as if the events don't have to unfold the way that they do. It's horrifying to realize that the mother can, in a skewed way, be said to have the best of intentions for her daughters yet a complete disregard for their need to experience life--especially in the wake of their sister's suicide.

I like that the film didn't attempt to explain feelings and emotions that the girls had, which would have inevitably taken them for granted. There's a truth to be gained from the thought that one has no place to comment on or discount the inner turmoil of anybody.

The actresses who play the sisters do a great job of being understated in their unhappiness, and the plot's slow build-up of their confinement makes the film's final act especially poignant.