There have been plenty of Cinderella stories about a small-town girl making it big as a pop star. ‘Teen Spirit’ breaks that mold by delivering a more visceral experience. Max Minghella’s directorial debut is a pleasant surprise. It is one of those low-budget indie films that you don’t expect much from but nails the rags-to-riches tale for the millennial generation. The film works due to the terrific performance by Elle Fanning. She has this natural beauty and raw talent that is thrilling to watch as she battles her way to stardom. This isn’t a story about the dark side of fame and celebrity like Natalie Portman’s ‘Vox Lux.’ ‘Teen Spirit’ is a simple tale of a girl pursuing her artistic dreams of becoming a pop star.
Violet Valenski (Fanning) is a Polish-born British teenager living with her mother (Agnieszka Grochowska) on the Isle of Wight. Violet’s life appears to be pretty mundane as she goes to school, works at a restaurant and helps her mom around their small farm. It seems like the only moment of joy for her comes when she sings at a local pub. When Vlad (Zlatko Buric), a former opera singer hears her voice, he sees potential in her. When Teen Spirit (similar to American Idol) comes to town, they hold auditions for the television show. On a whim, she enters the competition and due to her talent and angelic beauty is an immediate standout. She is eventually invited to the final round in London. Vlad becomes her impromptu manager and protector.
The reason ‘Teen Spirit’ works so well is due to Fanning. She is terrific in the lead role. It is also an added bonus that all of the music she performs is actually her singing. She is not lip syncing so it gives the material an emotional energy. Each performance is presented with a unique visual style. Minghella uses vibrant colors and heart-thumping music that gives the performances a dramatic feel. Fanning sings a powerful rendition of Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own” and Ellie Goulding’s “Lights.” There is also a memorable scene of her dancing and singing in her bedroom to No Doubt’s “Just a Girl.” It shows how a pop song can feel like it was specifically written for you.
As the competition gets closer, you feel the pressure that Violet is experiencing. This is her shot at stardom. It’s not an indictment about the shady underbelly of the music industry or our culture’s obsession with fame. Each musical number shows how Violet is maturing as a performer. She has the talent to become successful. It is just a question as to whether she can mentally handle the spotlight. Don’t expect the flash and glam of ‘A Star Is Born.’ This is a small independent film with the heart of gold. The story is conventional but it is done with so much style that it keeps you engaged. The bond that develops between Vlad and Violet is also compelling to watch.
‘Teen Spirit’ is a small film with a big heart. Fanning delivers a stellar performance. She will blow you away with her vocal range. The film is only playing in limited release but is worth seeking at your local arthouse theater.
