Babyteeth Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A sick girl dyes her hair wacky colors and dates a drug dealer while her parents try their best not to completely lose it.

🍿 Babyteeth: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction: Milla and Moses’s First Encounter

Milla, a teenager battling a serious illness, has a chance encounter with Moses, a small-time drug dealer, at a train station. This meeting sparks an unexpected connection between them. Moses’s chaotic energy and unconventional lifestyle stand in stark contrast to Milla’s structured and sheltered existence.

The Parents’ Reaction and Complicated Dynamics

Milla’s parents, Henry and Anna, are initially horrified by her relationship with Moses. Henry, a psychiatrist, and Anna, a former musician battling her own demons, struggle to accept Moses into their daughter’s life. They grapple with their protective instincts and the desire to see Milla happy, even if it means compromising their own values.

Milla’s Transformation and Acceptance

As Milla’s relationship with Moses deepens, she begins to embrace life with a newfound sense of freedom. Her illness progresses, and she loses her hair, but she experiments with wigs and fashion, expressing her individuality. The family’s dynamics shift as Henry and Anna realize the profound impact Moses has on Milla’s well-being, leading them to a grudging acceptance of their unconventional bond.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Milla (Eliza Scanlen): A seriously ill teenager who experiences first love with a small-time drug dealer.
• Moses (Toby Wallace): A small-time drug dealer who becomes Milla’s unlikely love interest, changing his life in the process.
• Anna (Essie Davis): Milla’s mother, a former musician battling depression and struggling to accept her daughter’s choices.
• Henry (Ben Mendelsohn): Milla’s father, a psychiatrist who resorts to unconventional methods to support his daughter.
• Toby (Emily Barclay): The Finlay’s pregnant neighbour whose relationship with Henry becomes unexpectedly close.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Milla: “I’m going to enjoy becoming part of a sky like this, Dad.” – Milla says this to her father on the beach, expressing her acceptance of death and finding beauty in it.
• Anna: “This is the worst possible parenting I can imagine.” – Anna says this to Henry, reflecting their conflicted feelings about enabling Milla’s relationship with Moses.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $3 million
• Domestic Gross: $4,507
• Worldwide Gross: $1,146,327

💥 Babyteeth Reviews

Personal Review

Wow, this movie hit me hard. I wasn’t expecting to feel so much! Eliza Scanlen is incredible; her portrayal of Milla is so raw and real. The scene where she’s on the beach with her dad, talking about death, absolutely broke me. It’s not just a sad movie, though. It’s about finding joy and love in the midst of chaos. I found the humour unexpected and welcome! I was just so moved and connected to these characters.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of coming-of-age dramas”
  • “Viewers who appreciate independent films with strong character development”
  • “Audiences interested in stories about family dynamics and unconventional relationships”
  • “Those who enjoy films that explore themes of love, loss, and acceptance”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Deals with themes of terminal illness”
  • “Contains drug use”
  • “Features mature themes and some strong language”
  • “May contain scenes that are emotionally challenging for sensitive viewers”

Professional Reviews

• IndieWire: “Babyteeth navigates tricky emotional territory with grace, anchored by phenomenal performances from Scanlen and Mendelsohn. The film is unexpectedly funny, even as it tackles difficult themes of mortality and family.
• The Guardian: “Shannon Murphy’s debut feature is a moving and darkly funny take on first love and family dysfunction, elevated by its excellent cast. Eliza Scanlen shines as Milla, bringing both vulnerability and strength to the role.
• Sight & Sound: “Babyteeth avoids saccharine sentimentality, offering a raw and honest portrayal of terminal illness. Murphy’s direction is assured, and the film’s episodic structure keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.

Audience Reactions

The raw and authentic portrayal of a teenager grappling with serious illness resonated deeply with viewers.: Many praised the film’s ability to blend humor and heartbreak seamlessly.

Ben Mendelsohn and Essie Davis received accolades for their nuanced performances as Milla’s parents.: Viewers appreciated the film’s exploration of family dynamics and unconventional relationships.

Overall Consensus: Babyteeth is a coming-of-age drama that defies expectations, delivering a moving and darkly funny exploration of love, loss, and family in the face of terminal illness. Critics and audiences alike have praised its performances and raw emotional honesty.

Awards

1. AACTA Awards (Best Film)- 2020
2. AACTA Awards (Best Direction)- 2020
3. AACTA Awards (Best Actress)- 2020
4. AACTA Awards (Best Supporting Actor)- 2020

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Eliza Scanlen shaved her head for her role as Milla, demonstrating a strong commitment to the character’s journey and realism.”
• “The film is based on a play of the same name by Rita Kalnejais, who also wrote the screenplay, ensuring a consistent vision from stage to screen.”
• “Director Shannon Murphy’s background was primarily in television, including work on ‘Killing Eve,’ making ‘Babyteeth’ her feature film directorial debut.”

🖥️ How to Watch Babyteeth?

As of October 2024, ‘Babyteeth’ is available for purchase or rental on various digital platforms, including Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Prime Video. Check your local listings for availability on streaming services in your region. It is not currently included with any major streaming subscription but is readily available for on-demand viewing.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Babyteeth, you might like these similar films:

• The Fault in Our Stars (2014): Both films center on teenagers dealing with terminal illness and finding love in the face of mortality.
• Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015): This film explores similar themes of teenage friendship and dealing with terminal illness with a quirky, indie sensibility.
• Terms of Endearment (1983): Deals with themes of family, love, and loss in the face of terminal illness, showcasing the emotional journey of a mother and daughter.

🛒 Babyteeth Related Products

• Babyteeth [Blu-ray]: Own Babyteeth on Blu-ray for a high-definition viewing experience and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. A must-have for fans of the film.
• Babyteeth: The Play by Rita Kalnejais: Read the original stage play that inspired the film. Experience the story in its original form and gain deeper insights into the characters and themes.
• Eliza Scanlen Signed Movie Poster: Own a limited edition movie poster signed by Eliza Scanlen. A unique piece of memorabilia for dedicated fans.
• Babyteeth Movie-Inspired Art Prints: Decorate your space with stunning art prints inspired by the film’s vibrant aesthetic. Choose from various designs and sizes.

🎧 Soundtrack

Babyteeth features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Golden Brown” – performed by The Stranglers
• “Bizness” – performed by Tune-Yards
• “The Winner Takes It All” – performed by ABBA

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

This Is How You Analyse Film Directing

Ever wonder what *really* goes into directing a movie? This video breaks down all the key elements, from camera angles to actor blocking. Honestly, after watching this, you’ll see movies in a whole new light. It’s surprisingly fascinating!

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