Movie Review by Bill Rendall

The Virgin Suicides

The title gives a good indication of where the movie is going. The fate of the young sisters, who are the subject of the movie, is sealed when they play 'Alone Again, Naturally', one of the most depressing songs ever put on a record. The Virgin Suicides shows a disaster unfold in slow motion. But it has a haunting quality and I can't look away.

The Virgin Suicides is the debut for Sofia Coppola as director and screenwriter. She is the daughter of Francis Ford Coppola and has previously copped flak, and accusations of nepotism, for her acting in his movies. She has now proved that she has great ability working behind the camera.

I suspect that a large part of the appeal of The Virgin Suicides to me is the nostalgia factor. It is a period piece set in the seventies. A yellow filter gives it an aged look. The movie features props from the period, such as clothing, hairstyles and cars.

Another part of the appeal to me is the soundtrack. The score makes effective use of the Mellotron to create a haunting atmosphere. The Mellotron is a tape replay instrument which was popular in the seventies. The soundtrack includes many classic pop songs from the seventies.

The sister who is the main focus of attention is played by Kirsten Dunst. She has a crush on the coolest boy in school, played by Josh Hartnet. Sporting a dodgy name, Trip, and a dodgy wig, you just know he will lead her astray. This is emphasised by the Heart song Magic Man which is playing as he cruises in. He takes her to the school dance which is another opportunity to play some seventies songs. 10cc and ELO deliver the goods. Did I mention how much I like the soundtrack?

I recommend The Virgin Suicides as one of my favourite movies, but be warned that it will not appeal to everyone because of its slow pace and depressing subject matter.

Director: Sofia Coppola

Screenplay: Sofia Coppola

Music: Air

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