Drama
Germany,United States of America
"White Oleander" is a 2002 drama film based on the novel of the same name by Janet Fitch. The story follows Astrid Magnussen, a 15-year-old girl whose mother, Ingrid, is a passionate but toxic artist who is imprisoned for killing her ex-lover. Astrid is subsequently sent to live with a series of foster families, each with their own set of challenges and struggles.
First, Astrid is placed with Starr, a former actress who is obsessed with her own beauty and encourages Astrid to embrace a similar mindset. When Starr's boyfriend attacks Astrid, she is moved to the home of Claire Richards, a religious and controlling woman who tries to mold Astrid in her own image.
Next, Astrid lands with a family headed by a woman named Rena Gruschenko, a struggling actress who uses Astrid as a way to get attention and sympathy from her wealthy friends. Astrid briefly enjoys the luxurious lifestyle that Rena offers, but eventually becomes disillusioned with her shallow ways.
Astrid's final foster home is with a kindly and nurturing woman named Val, who helps Astrid begin to heal from the traumas she has experienced. However, when Ingrid is released from prison and tries to insert herself back into Astrid's life, the teenager must confront her complicated feelings towards her mother and decide whether to let her back in.
"White Oleander" offers a moving and complex portrayal of a young woman's journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of difficult circumstances. The film features strong performances from Alison Lohman as Astrid, and from Michelle Pfeiffer as Ingrid, a character who is both charismatic and cruel.
