Inspired by her mom's rebellious past and a confident new friend, a shy 16-year-old publishes an anonymous zine calling out sexism at her school.
- Released: 2021-03-03
- Runtime: 111 minutes
- Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music
- Stars: Hadley Robinson, Lauren Tsai, Alycia Pascual-Peña, Nico Hiraga, Sabrina Haskett, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sydney Park, Anjelika Washington, Josie Totah, Amy Poehler, Ike Barinholtz, Marcia Gay Harden, Josephine Langford, Joshua Darnell Walker, Clark Gregg, Charlie Hall, Avery Bagenstos, Ron Perkins, Aaaron Holliday, Roman Arabia, Greg Poehler, Helen Slayton-Hughes, Xander Evans, Avantika Vandanapu, Kevin Dorff, Carla Valentine, Corey Fogelmanis, Cooper Mothersbaugh, Gracie Lawrence, Brady Reiter, Ji-young Yoo, Aaron Holliday
- Director: Amy Poehler
Comments
- Wolluz - 25 September 2023
"Moxie" - A Boring Take on a Critical Issue
Moxie attempts to tackle the complex issue of feminism and female empowerment within a high school setting. While it does have some commendable aspects, such as the portrayal of the Mom and the approach taken by the childhood friend towards feminism, it ultimately falls short in delivering a nuanced and engaging story.
The film's antagonist, unfortunately, comes across as painfully one-dimensional. The character lacks depth and motivation, serving merely as a convenient strawman for a left-leaning agenda. The cruelty and disrespect displayed by this character often feel forced and gratuitous, making it difficult to take him seriously. Instances like the soda-spitting scene harken back to clichéd 1980s high school bully stereotypes, leaving me craving a more fleshed-out antagonist. Why does he feel the way he does? Why is he hostile to feminism and the protagonist?
Another glaring issue is the soundtrack, which prominently features songs by "Bikini Kill." Regardless of one's political stance, the music choice fails to enhance the viewing experience. The soundtrack is characterized by jarring and discordant elements, making it one of the most atrocious aspects of the film.
"Moxie" simplifies a genuinely important and multifaceted issue into a binary conflict, with a clear division between the 'bad guy' (the school bully) and the 'good guy' (the love interest). This simplistic approach does a disservice to the complexity of the subject matter and limits the film's potential impact.
On a positive note, the character of the Mom is a standout, injecting humor and authenticity into the story. Her presence offers a refreshing contrast to the film's more caricatured elements.
The most intriguing aspect of "Moxie" lies in the childhood friend's approach to feminism. Her subtle and pragmatic approach to activism provides a compelling alternative to the more overt methods pursued by the protagonist. This character's journey offers a glimpse into the nuanced ways individuals can effect change, even when faced with adversity.
"Moxie" has its moments but ultimately falls short of delivering a thought-provoking exploration of feminism and empowerment. Its one-dimensional villain, jarring soundtrack, and simplified narrative structure hinder its ability to fully engage the audience. However, the film does manage to shine through the performances of certain characters, particularly the Mom and the childhood friend, who bring depth and authenticity to an otherwise polarized narrative. - kellyjellybean-16484 - 21 September 2022
Great, but ruined by one line at the end
Everything about this movie was awesome and empowering and puts into words what so many of us have felt but never knew how to say. It was touching and really got me feeling the sisterhood. The unfortunate part about this movie is at the end, when the girls are sharing their moments of participation in the feminist movement at their school. One of the gags throughout the film was the injury of another student, and one girl admits she was the one to do it, followed by "that's feminism right there, and I do not feel bad about it. Moxie forever." And the crowd cheers. Considering why they were all gathered there in the first place, a physical assault on another person isn't something that should be celebrated or tolerated as a feminist. - kalimarpetitt - 13 February 2022
Best Girl Empowerment Movie Of The Year!
Have your daughters watch this. Amy Poehler demonstrates her directing range in this coming of age movie that focuses on the ever-persistent plight of being a girl. Except these girls find their voice and inner strength. The acting is strong and the lead actress nailed the emotional investment to make this movie sit with your soul. - krisnadexter - 10 October 2021
A Great Feminist Movie
These days we saw the rising of the so called feminist movies. Those whose purpose to empowered women. But as a man I feel most of the time those movies are cringey.
They pictured female as these super power figure and the male was as dumb as possible. Something that really unrelatable to most people. But Moxie is different, it is relatable, has a good drama and funny as well.
In Moxie our protagonists are going against ordinary obstacles that women faced everyday. They were objectified, labeled, being unheard, ignored, harassed, and raped. How will they overcome those things? Well you have to see it for yourself.
Moxie is a good movie, but I think they could expand this movie into series. There many interesting characters that can be developed. Everyone seems to have their own story. From Claudia (protagonists best friend) who comes from strict immigrants family, Kiera the athletic soccer captain, and of course Seth, the boyfriend that everyone deserves.
I really recommend anybody to watch this movie.
