SIFF 2023

"Blue Jean" is a striking debut feature for Georgia Oakley. At a time when Margaret Thatcher's conservative government is stigmatizing gays and lesbians, a new student in Jean's physical education class threatens to out Jean's sexuality. With mounting pressure from all sides of Jean's life, she's pushed to reconcile with her self-acceptance. The film is beautifully captured in 16mm (I think) with a cold blue tint and is accompanied by a propulsive 80s synth score. Rosy McEwen is captivating as the titular Jean as she comes to grips with the protective barriers she's erected around her identity beginning to crumble. I didn't love the use (overuse) of tv and radio clips to illustrate the environmental factors weighing on Jean's psyche. I reacted similarly to that as I did its use in Andrew Dominic's "Killing Them Softly." I always found it to be a somewhat heavy-handed method to elucidate a thematic element. This lesbian drama is still relevant and addresses issues that are just as important today as they were during the time depicted in the story.

— 3.5 / 5 ⭐