Director Aisha Ford says she remembers the “beauty and fun” of her childhood, but she also remembers the danger. Both are ably captured here in Angie Sciulli’s vibrant cinematography. The slushy Phoenix fixates on and the uniforms worn by two recurring cheerleaders are bright red, highlighting her desires – both simple (a sweet treat) and more complex (the lives of the privileged popular girls) – while simultaneously hinting at the coming danger. In the daylight, the summer heat is palpable, and as Phoenix’s day goes on, the growing dusk adds real menace.

-Isabelle Ryan

UK Film Review

June 14, 2021