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Movie Review: Blue Jean, A Heartwarming, Witty Take on Lesbian Love and Life

Blue Jean is a 2022 British drama film directed by Georgia Oakley. Set in Newcastle in 1988, it follows Jean, a PE teacher at a secondary school, who leads a closeted life due to the societal and professional pressures of the time. The story intensifies when Jean and a new student, Lois, recognise each other at a gay bar, leading to a complex dynamic.

Blue Jean is a breath of fresh air in the world of LGBTQ+ cinema. It’s a film that not only tackles the serious aspects of being a lesbian in today’s world but does so with a mix of humour, warmth, and a bit of cheekiness. It’s like a comforting chat with a good friend – honest, sometimes raw, but always with a hint of laughter.

Plot Overview

Blue Jean centres around Jean, our lesbian heroine, who’s just trying to figure out love, life, and everything in between. Imagine navigating a maze while blindfolded – that’s Jean’s journey but with more romantic rendezvous and fewer dead ends. It’s a story that’s as much about finding love as it is about finding the perfect pair of jeans – comfortable, flattering, and unapologetically you.

Direction and Cinematography

The director takes what could be a heavy theme and gives it a light touch. Blue Jean’s look and feel has a certain quirkiness – think of it as the visual equivalent of a wink. The cinematography is intimate without being invasive.

Related article: new lesbian film ‘Aging Out’.

Performances

The portrayal of Jean is a perfect blend of awkward, endearing, and brave – basically, every lesbian’s spirit animal. The chemistry between Jean and her love interest is more electric than a static shock from your favourite sweater. The supporting characters add their own spice, serving up a delightful buffet of personalities.

Kerrie Hayes and Rosy McEwen in BLUE JEAN, a Magnolia Pictures release. © Blue Jean Productions Ltd. Photo Courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Kerrie Hayes and Rosy McEwen in BLUE JEAN, a Magnolia Pictures release. © Blue Jean Productions Ltd. Photo Courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

Script and Dialogue

The script is a standout, with dialogue that’s as witty as it is poignant. It’s like the writers knew exactly what you were thinking and decided to say it out loud. There are one-liners that’ll make you chuckle and exchanges that’ll have you nodding in agreement.

Themes and Symbolism

The film does a stellar job of weaving in themes of self-acceptance, love, and the universal quest for a great pair of jeans (because who doesn’t relate to that?). The symbolic use of clothing to represent identity is clever – it’s not just fashion, it’s a statement.

Music and Sound Design

The soundtrack is like a perfectly curated playlist for an impromptu dance party in your living room. It complements the film’s tone, often adding a playful note to the more tender scenes.

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Cultural and Social Impact

While Blue Jean does its bit for lesbian representation, it does so without the weight of a public service announcement. It’s a film that says, “Hey, we’re here, we’re queer, and sometimes we have really awkward first dates too.”

Blue Jean Trailor

Blue Jean is a charming, feel-good lesbian movie that offers a sincere yet light-hearted look at lesbian life and love. It’s like a warm hug in cinematic form, leaving you with a smile and maybe a new perspective on love, life, and, of course, denim.

If you want to watch it, then you can rent or buy it from Amazon.

Love Team Nonchalant xx

Nonchalant Magazine
Nonchalant Magazine

This article was written by one of our creative team writers here at Nonchalant Magazine.

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