Moxie! A Riot Grrrl Revolution in High School Halls?

“Moxie,” directed by Amy Poehler and released in 2021, is not your typical coming-of-age story. It’s a vibrant, energetic, and unapologetically feminist tale set against the backdrop of suburban high school life. The film follows Vivian Carter, a shy and somewhat invisible teenager who is inspired by her mother’s rebellious past to challenge the deeply ingrained sexism and double standards at her school.

Vivian’s awakening comes in the form of discovering her mother’s collection of Riot Grrrl zines and cassette tapes from the 1990s. This underground feminist movement, characterized by its DIY ethos, raw honesty, and fiercely independent spirit, ignites a spark in Vivian. She decides to take action against the ingrained misogyny at her high school, starting with anonymously creating and distributing “Moxie” zines that expose sexist policies, inappropriate behavior from male students, and the general climate of female subjugation.

The film brilliantly captures the complexities of teenage life, showcasing both the vulnerability and strength inherent in young people navigating societal expectations. Vivian’s journey is not without its challenges. Her best friend Claudia initially dismisses her efforts as “too radical,” highlighting the internalized misogyny that even well-meaning individuals can struggle with.

Vivian’s activism, however, gains momentum when other girls at school resonate with her message. They find courage in Vivian’s voice and begin to contribute their own experiences and perspectives to the “Moxie” movement. The film culminates in a powerful student protest that disrupts the status quo and forces the administration to confront the deep-rooted issues plaguing the school environment.

The Stellar Cast: Bringing “Moxie” to Life

“Moxie” boasts a talented cast that brings authenticity and depth to its characters:

• Hadley Robinson delivers a captivating performance as Vivian Carter, portraying her transformation from timid observer to fearless leader with sincerity and nuance.
• Lauren Tsai shines as Claudia, Vivian’s skeptical but ultimately supportive best friend, grappling with her own internalized biases while finding her voice within the movement.

Other notable performances include:

• Alycia Pascual-Peña as Lucy Hernandez, a confident and outspoken student who becomes a key figure in the “Moxie” movement.
• Marsai Martin as A’Mia, a gifted artist who channels her creativity into designing powerful visuals for the zines.
• Patrick Schwarzenegger as Mitchell Wilson, the seemingly charming but ultimately problematic star quarterback whose behavior exposes the hypocrisy and entitlement prevalent among some male students.

Themes of Empowerment and Social Change: “Moxie” Ignites Discussion

Beyond its entertaining narrative, “Moxie” tackles important themes relevant to contemporary society:

Production Highlights: Bringing “Moxie” to the Screen

Amy Poehler’s directorial vision brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the film, capturing the spirit of teenage rebellion and feminist activism with authenticity and heart. The soundtrack, featuring both classic Riot Grrrl anthems and contemporary indie rock tracks, perfectly complements the film’s themes and tone.

“Moxie” is not just another high school movie; it’s a powerful call to action for young people and adults alike to challenge inequality, embrace their individuality, and fight for a more just and equitable world.