Slut In a Good Way (2019)

Since its origin, the word slut has been used to diminish, discredit, and define young women, often before they could define themselves. While it still packs a pretty destructive punch, popular activism — from the Riot grrrls of the ‘90s to modern-day SlutWalks — encourages us to stand in defiance and take the word back.

If changing the language means changing the culture, SLUT IN A GOOD WAY successfully — and delightfully — wrests the power of the word from its abusers. With sparkling wit, resounding spirit, and a ton of heart, the film tells the story of 17-year-old Charlotte, a girl whose newfound sexual empowerment forces her to confront the harsh judgment of the ever-popular double standard.

Following in the footsteps of classic indie films like CLERKS and FRANCES HA, this Quebecois coming-of-age comedy gets right into the hearts and minds of teenagers with a playful mix of hilarious verisimilitude (see: drinking tall cans in a public park with your friends) and ultra-dramatic, black and white cinematography. You’ll laugh. You’ll sigh. And your heart will swell with the memory of a time when eating chips with your crush once meant the world to you, too.

“Lorain’s film challenges traditional gender roles in such a way that’s surface-level entertaining but also deep enough to inspire a college term paper or two.” — Peter Debruge, Variety