Wetlands
dir. David Wnendt · 2013
Being alive involves challenging societal norms and embracing one's individuality, even through unconventional and rebellious actions.
"Wetlands" is a bold exploration of teenage rebellion, where humor collides with the darker aspects of growing up. Through Helen's chaotic journey, the film challenges societal norms and celebrates the messy, often taboo nature of self-discovery.
Helen is a nonconformist teenage girl who maintains a conflictual relationship with her parents. Hanging out most of her time with her friend Corinna, with whom she breaks one social taboo after another, she uses sex as a way to rebel and break the conventional bourgeois ethic. After an intimate shaving accident, Helen ends up in the hospital where it doesn’t take long before she makes waves. But there she finds Robin, a male nurse who will sweep her off her feet...
Talking points
- the impact of parental relationships on identity
- the role of sexuality in adolescent rebellion
- the portrayal of female friendships
- the balance between humor and darkness in coming-of-age narratives
