Review of Towelhead (2008) by Jiana W — 07 Feb 2011

I wouldn't really describe this movie as "funny". I don't even remember what points I specifically laughed at.* I was unable to quite discern what time period this film took place. I didn't know if was the early to mid-90s or the early 2000s because of the way the characters dressed, particularly Jasira. And I know the U.S. was doing stuff about Iraq during Bush Sr.'s term so that also confused me about the time period. It wasn't too important in the grand scheme of things but I was just curious throughout the film.

Anyway, the movie itself was slightly disturbing. How old was this Summer Bishil girl when they made this? Because I wondered how this movie escaped criticism/controversy regarding the nature of the scenes she was involved in with Aaron Eckhart, and even the boy her age. I know the movie "The New World" had to cut several scenes between Q'Orianka Kilcher and Colin Farrell because she was only 13 or 14 at the time, and the scenes would've violated child pornography laws. So I was wondering how old Summer Bishil was, because this movie spares almost nothing in its depiction of a young teenage girl's sexual awakening. From periods to self-pleasure to getting naked in front of men (although they don't show anything) to being involved with a sick neighbor, it made me uncomfortable at times.

Regarding her relationship with her adult neighbor, this man was a pedophile. The first time he raped her, the second time he slept with her and after this all came out, he was arrested by the cops. The next DAY he's out on the front lawn folding a flag. I don't know but I would wonder the legitimacy of the cops releasing him back to his home knowing he lives right next door to the girl he violated. That didn't quite make sense to me.

Jasira's parents were maddening and ridiculous idiots. I'd probably run away and never return if I had parents like that. Her mother was a total moron, her father was a hypocritical psychopath... I felt sorry for this girl. The movie just isn't for the squeamish. The imagery can be quite vivid and disturbing and will probably stick with you long after you've watched it.

* Edit: I do remember a funny bit, now that I thought more about it. The Snowball incident was hilarious-- and weird.