Series: A Celebration of Films By Women - "Yes, God, Yes" (2020)
Day 2
Film: “Yes, God, Yes” (2020)
Director: Karen Maine
Writer: Karen Maine
Stars: Natalia Dyer, Timothy Simons, Wolfgang Novogratz, Francesca Reale
Synopsis: Catholic high schooler, Alice (Natalia Dyer) is growing up in a repressive religious environment. One day, while on AOL, a chat goes from innocent to explicit quickly. But as a young woman receiving misinformation about her body and sexuality, she can’t contain her curiosity. While away at a co-ed spiritual retreat, Alice’s journey of self-discovery clashes with the oppressive Christian atmosphere.
Why I Love This Film: In high school, I loved the film “Saved!” (2004). It was another film that explored Christianity and sexuality. However, as it was a reflection of the current times. Where “Yes, God, Yes,” differs and excels is the fact we are looking back on the early-aughts through years of self- and societal-reflection. We are able to hold both the humor of that absurdity and the trauma of the shame in that type of environment that only time could give us.
Maine’s screenplay and direction are tight. Everything builds perfectly before we reach a crescendo in the film. Every beat feels purposeful and when you reach the end of the film, you understand and appreciate Alice’s growth. “Yes, God, Yes” is one of those films that moves swiftly and everything falls into place that it feels effortless.
The film is grounded by Dyer’s thoughtful performance. Alice is just a high school kid who is curious about her own body in a place that shames people for that. Dyer is honest and authentic in the film. While Alice, like any teenager, struggles to always make the right decisions, Dyer never shames or uses the comedy of the film to belittle her character. She holds a delicate balance of playing up the comedy that is indeed based on the absurdity of the hypocrisy, while holding the frustration and societally imposed shame thrust upon her as well.
“Yes, God, Yes” is a thoughtful film. If you grew up around conservative Christians, your experiences in your adolescents will be reflected back in a caring and affirming way. All of the teenage awkwardness and adolescent curiosity wrapped into a beautiful little film.
Where This Film Can Be Found: Netflix (US)