[Review] 'The Prom' Lesbian High School Student Who Boldly Stands Against a World Full of Prejudice

Movie 'The Prom' Still

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] "I just want to live as myself." "The world has changed."

We often dismiss those who are different from us as unusual and push them aside as "strange." Prejudice and discrimination quickly turn into hatred, and hatred spreads rapidly. Sexual minorities who are attracted to the same sex simply want their differences to be acknowledged, yet they often become targets of hatred. The Prom tells a story of solidarity, healing, and overcoming the prejudice and wounds faced by sexual minorities. The musical film sings a message that is uncomfortable but must be confronted.

The Prom is a Netflix film about a country girl who is unable to attend her prom with her girlfriend, and the Broadway stars who, upon hearing her story by chance, step up to rebuild their images and fulfill the girl's wish.

Based on the popular musical of the same name that debuted on Broadway in 2018, it depicts the story of washed-up Broadway actors standing up against a conservative rural school that bans same-sex couples from attending prom. The film was nominated for seven categories at the 73rd Tony Awards.

Didi (Meryl Streep) and Barry (James Corden), who have spent most of their lives on the Broadway stage and were used to the spotlight, find themselves in crisis after their much-anticipated show receives harsh criticism. Searching for a chance to restore their fallen reputations, they come across Emma's (Jo Ellen Pellman) story?she cannot attend prom with her girlfriend?and, along with fellow actors Angie (Nicole Kidman) and Trent (Andrew Rannells), they impulsively head to Indiana.

Emma (Jo Ellen Pellman), a high school student in Indiana, planned to attend prom with her girlfriend, but the parent-teacher association strongly opposes it due to deep-rooted prejudice against sexual minorities. Didi, Barry, and Angie leave Broadway and head to a rural town in Indiana.

They raise their voices for Emma, who is fighting alone against deep-seated prejudice and discrimination. Together, they stand up to protect her right to attend prom, and through Emma's sincerity, they reflect on their own lives.

The Broadway stars remind those around Emma that prejudice is nothing more than prejudice, simply a matter of difference. As a result, Emma's surroundings gradually change, and after many twists and turns, they unite for the rightful rights of an individual.

The film is cheerful. The easy and enjoyable musical numbers allow the audience to immerse themselves effortlessly in the story. Moreover, the performances of Meryl Streep and James Corden are outstanding. James Corden projects his own identity as a sexual minority through Emma and heals past wounds. Discovering the charming humor of Corden, a famous talk show host, is also a great pleasure of the film. Meryl Streep demonstrates the skill she has built through numerous musical films, providing solid weight to the story.

Although it contains somewhat heavy themes, it seems suitable for teenagers to enjoy as well. The Prom is a well-planned commercial musical film faithful to the basic formula. It skillfully blends dazzling stages, sophisticated dance, laughter, and emotion.

However, the scenes in the latter part where too many characters' backstories are revealed to resolve conflicts feel somewhat tedious. Also, Meryl Streep's romance is a flaw. In a work dealing with themes such as humanity and prejudice, the development where she ultimately heals her wounds through a heterosexual relationship is itself contradictory. The narrative is somewhat disappointing, but it should be enjoyable as a musical film.

Ryan Murphy, producer of American Crime Story, American Horror Story, Glee, Netflix original series Hollywood, and Ratched, directed the film.

The Prom will be released in theaters on December 2 and available on Netflix on the 11th. Running time: 131 minutes.

Photo = Netflix