Warning: this article may contain spoilers.
Many have heard of Netflix’s controversial original motion picture Tall Girl. As of February 11, 2022, the sequel was released for all to view.
This PG-rated film begins with a look into main character Jodie (Ava Michelle) and Dunkleman’s (Griffin Gluck) relationship. The setting is around three months after the first movie’s end as the couple celebrates their three month anniversary.
The audience is led along a path of unrealistic high school expectations and cringeworthy interactions. For example, towards the beginning of the film, friends talk about how it’s unacceptable in society for a short guy and tall girl to date. Though this may seem like a major deal as it’s a common theme in these movies, the dynamic is seen in everyday life with plenty of couples who pay no care to height. Even in Hollywood couples like Tom Holland and Zendaya are rocking their height differences.
In other parts of the movie, characters find themselves in conflict with one another and are seen to get rather upset only to miraculously make up a short period after their fights.
While this does sometimes happen in the real world, it can be rare. When it comes to high schoolers, closure can make everyone feel better, though this movie doesn’t advise openly talking about issues almost at all.
The movie also shows Jodie starring in her school’s musical production of Bye Bye Birdie. Theatrical productions are enjoyed by many however this movie stripped the musical of every theater art, resembling the show more as a dancing concert.
Even though there are hundreds of ways to tear apart this film, there are a few positive messages within.
Many teens struggle with large amounts of stress, anxiety, and overthinking, so this can be extremely relatable.
Throughout the film, Jodie struggles with feelings of anxiety, which she originally claims as “the voice in her head who claims she can’t do anything.”
Though there are many negative things to be said about this movie, in the end, if the audience is willing to stick around, they may find positive messages hidden within.
