Girl, Interrupted (1999)
Release Year: 1999
Nation: United States of America
Alternative Title: Durchgeknallt, Inocencia interrumpida
Director: James Mangold
Writer: Anna Hamilton Phelan, James Mangold, Lisa Loomer, Susanna Kaysen
Production & Genre
Producer(s):
Companies: Columbia Pictures, Red Wagon Entertainment
Genre: Biographical Film, Biography, Coming-Of-Age Fiction, Drama, Film Based On Literature
Awards & Similar
Awards:
Similar:
Keywords
Keywords: 1960s, based on memoir or autobiography, based on novel or book, based on true story, borderline personality disorder, compassionate, escape, female friendship, female protagonist, gentle, identity, insanity, introspective, meditative, mental illness, mental institution, psychiatric hospital, psychiatric ward, psychiatrist, suicide attempt
Story
In the late 1960s, Susanna Kaysen (Winona Ryder) finds herself committed to Claymoore psychiatric hospital after a suicide attempt. Initially expecting a 'short rest,' she soon realizes it's difficult to leave once admitted. She meets an eclectic group of patients including Georgina Tuskin (Catherine Keener), Polly Clark (Elisabeth Moss), Janet Webber (Brittany Murphy), Daisy Randone (Angela Bettis), and Lisa Rowe (Angelina Jolie). Lisa, a sociopath, manipulates the other patients, initially gaining control over Susanna. Over time, Susanna learns to assert her independence and challenge Lisa's dominance. After an 18-month stay, Susanna is released but struggles with her newfound identity.
Summary
Based on Susanna Kaysen's memoir of the same name, 'Girl, Interrupted' (1999) explores the complexities of mental illness and institutionalization through the eyes of its protagonist during the late 1960s. Directed by James Mangold, the film navigates themes of identity, control, and compassion within the confines of a psychiatric hospital. Winona Ryder delivers a nuanced performance as Susanna Kaysen, with Angelina Jolie's portrayal of Lisa Rowe providing a formidable counterpoint.
