My Take:
We’re heading to the scenic Oregon coast for a women’s writers' retreat. Claire Jabrowski is a confident, heterosexually-identified author who loves to provoke and flirt. Her roommate is Dr. Noel Benedict—a serious, disciplined, and openly lesbian therapist. Initially, the two clash, but late-night discussions about art and identity cause sparks to fly. It’s a classic "opposites attract" story, delivered in an atmospheric, literary 90s style.
What's Captivating: Nostalgia and thematic bravery. For the early 90s, the film was incredibly bold in depicting a woman's journey toward self-discovery in adulthood. The Pacific Northwest setting adds a melancholic, almost dreamlike vibe. The bond between Claire and Noel is built slowly, focusing on dialogue and intellectual fascination.
A Word of Caution: The production has that distinct 90s "indie" feel—dialogue can be theatrical, and the acting is occasionally stiff. You have to watch it through the lens of its era, appreciating its significance in lesbian cinematic history.
Verdict: 7.0/10 🌙🌊
A milestone of queer cinema. It might feel a bit dated, but it possesses a sincerity and charm that many modern films lack.
🔍 Did you know...?
The film became a massive independent success despite mixed critical reviews, and it went on to be a staple at LGBTQ+ film festivals worldwide. Director Nicole Conn shared years later that the film sparked a wave of letters from women who felt empowered to come out because of Claire's story. Interestingly, in 2012, Conn released a book about the making of the film, revealing that the budget was so tight the crew had to get incredibly creative to pull off such a polished aesthetic.
