When Miller’s Girl was first announced, excitement was high among fans of the horror franchise Scream, Tim Burton’s hit series Wednesday, and Jenna Ortega’s standout performance in Beetlejuice. As the latest addition to Prime Video’s lineup, expectations were sky-high for what was billed as a sensational and edgy film. However, upon its release, many viewers found themselves disappointed by the film’s execution and messaging.
Awkward Plot and Poor Execution
“Miller’s Girl” tells the story of Cairo, an 18-year-old literature student with a knack for writing, who embarks on a tumultuous and sensual relationship with her 30-year-old professor. This premise, while promising drama and tension, quickly devolves into an uncomfortable narrative that fails to engage its audience. Directed by Jade Bartlett, known for her work on Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the film attempts to blend romance and suspense but ends up feeling clumsy and poorly paced.
The chemistry between Jenna Ortega and Martin Freeman, who plays the troubled professor, lacks the depth needed to make their on-screen relationship believable. Instead of creating compelling characters, the film falls into cliché territory, leaving viewers disconnected and uninterested.
Problematic Messaging in a Post #MeToo Era
One of the most significant criticisms of “Miller’s Girl” lies in its handling of sensitive themes, particularly in the context of the #MeToo movement. The film portrays an older man, who holds power as a professor, as a victim manipulated by a young, vengeful student. This reversal of typical power dynamics not only feels forced but also undermines the serious issues surrounding abuse of power and consent.
In a time when media is striving to handle such topics with care and respect, “Miller’s Girl” instead delivers a misguided and awkward message that many found troubling. The narrative attempts to present Cairo as the antagonist orchestrating the downfall of her professor, but it does so in a way that feels heavy-handed and lacks subtlety.
An Uncomfortable On-Set Experience
Behind the scenes, the production of “Miller’s Girl” was reportedly fraught with tension. Jenna Ortega, known for her professionalism and dedication, shared her discomfort working alongside Martin Freeman. The unsettling dynamic between the leads translated poorly onto the screen, contributing to the film’s overall sense of unease. Ortega has expressed her disappointment with the final product, emphasizing that the film did not meet her expectations or those of the fans who eagerly awaited its release.
A Film to Skip
Ultimately, “Miller’s Girl” fails to deliver on its promises of drama and intrigue. Instead, it presents a convoluted and awkward portrayal of complex relationships, overshadowed by problematic messaging. While Jenna Ortega continues to shine in her career, this particular project stands as a misstep that fans of her work and the original Scream series might want to skip.
As the conversation around the film continues on social media, it serves as a reminder of the importance of thoughtful storytelling, especially when tackling sensitive subjects. For those looking for quality entertainment, it might be best to explore other offerings on Prime Video that better respect both the audience and the themes they aim to portray.