Girlhood is available to watch now on BFI Player, here.
The third feature from Celine Sciamma (Waterlilies, Tomboy) is a superlative coming-of-age drama that provides an insightful look into adolescence and gang culture.
Fed up with her abusive family situation, lack of school prospects and the “boys’ law” in the neighbourhood, Marieme starts a new life after meeting a group of three free-spirited girls. She changes her name, her style, drops out of school and starts stealing to be accepted into the gang. When her home situation becomes unbearable, Marieme seeks solace in an older man who promises her money and protection. Realising this sort of lifestyle will never result in the freedom and independence she truly desires, she finally decides to take matters into her own hands.
Selected for Director’s Fortnight at Cannes in 2014, Girlhood is anchored by a trio of scintillating lead performances from Karidja Touré, Assa Sylla and Lindsay Karamoh.