How to Talk to Girls at Parties (2017) is a quirky, coming-of-age sci-fi film directed by John Cameron Mitchell, based on a short story by Neil Gaiman. The movie stars Alex Sharp, Elle Fanning, and Nicole Kidman, with Fanning portraying a mysterious alien named Zan. Set in 1970s London, it follows a shy teenager named Enn (Sharp) as he navigates the awkwardness of adolescence and romance, encountering a group of aliens at a party.
The film’s soundtrack features a mix of punk rock, with notable tracks from the era, contributing to the film's nostalgic yet surreal atmosphere. The plot explores themes of youth, identity, and connection, with an unusual alien twist. As for the age rating, the film is rated R due to mature themes, language, and some sexual content.
The film features a character analysis focusing on Enn’s growth and his encounters with Zan, highlighting themes of self-expression and cultural clashes. The film also explores the conflict between human desires and alien rules, along with Zan’s inner turmoil as she seeks freedom from her colony’s constraints.
A notable moment in the film is the armpit scene, which has been a point of discussion among viewers. In a strange and awkward interaction, Zan asks Enn to smell her armpit, leading to a bizarre yet intimate moment that emphasizes the cultural differences between the human and alien characters. This scene adds to the film's surreal and whimsical nature.
In terms of budget, the film had a modest production cost and premiered at Cannes, generating curiosity with its unique premise. The ending explores the consequences of Enn's and Zan’s relationship, leaving audiences with a bittersweet conclusion about youth and love.
Available for streaming on various platforms, the movie offers a refreshing take on teen romance, blending sci-fi and punk culture in a highly stylized narrative.
