Quick Info
Have you ever stumbled across a film that feels like listening to your favorite indie album on a lazy Saturday? "God Help the Girl" is just that kind of movie. It’s a quirky, Glasgow-set musical about Eve, a young woman dealing with mental health struggles, who finds hope and creativity through songwriting and new friendships. The film is written and directed by Stuart Murdoch, the lead singer of Belle and Sebastian, so if you’re into that wistful, delicate pop sound, you’ll feel right at home.
The first thing I noticed is the film’s almost dreamlike atmosphere. It’s very stylized—full of pastel-colored costumes, whimsical set pieces, and moments that feel lifted right out of a music video. The cinematography is sweet and evocative, giving Glasgow a summery, slightly magical glow (even when rain is pouring down). The musical numbers are charmingly low-fi and spontaneous, with a homemade vibe that fits the characters so well.
The cast is a real highlight. Emily Browning (you might know her from "A Series of Unfortunate Events" or "American Gods") plays Eve with a warm, brittle vulnerability, and her singing voice really surprised me—soft but expressive. Olly Alexander (from Years & Years) and Hannah Murray bring genuine awkwardness and earnestness to their roles as James and Cassie. They have an easy chemistry, even in the scenes that veer into twee territory.
That said, not everything lands perfectly. The pacing can feel a bit uneven, sometimes drifting in the way of an aimless summer afternoon. The plot is pretty light (sometimes almost too lightweight), so if you’re expecting dramatic highs and lows, you might find yourself wanting a bit more substance. But personally, I really appreciated how the story stays grounded in small, honest moments.
You would enjoy this if you love music-driven coming-of-age stories with hearts on their sleeves, or if you're into indie films overflowing with style and a sense of longing. Especially give it a go if Belle and Sebastian is in your Spotify rotation, or if you liked movies like "Sing Street" or "Once," but want something a touch more whimsical and gentle.
