Lovely Rita

Lovely Rita is a 2001 Austrian drama film directed by Jessica Hausner

Lovely Rita is another intriguing release from Vinegar Syndrome that earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. The film has a unique atmosphere, blending offbeat humor, drama, and moments of genuine emotional depth in a way that keeps you engaged. While the pacing occasionally slows, it ultimately serves the story's character-driven approach rather than relying on constant action. The performances are convincing, with the lead delivering a memorable portrayal that anchors the film's quirky tone. Visually, the movie looks excellent, and Vinegar Syndrome's restoration brings out impressive detail, vibrant colors, and strong contrast. The audio presentation is equally satisfying, making this edition feel like the definitive way to experience the film. The special features add worthwhile context and value for collectors. Although it may not resonate with every viewer due to its unconventional style, Lovely Rita is a rewarding watch for fans of overlooked cinema and another quality addition to Vinegar Syndrome's growing catalog.

deadpan examination of suburban adolescent alienation that avoids typical Hollywood coming-of-age tropes

Movie:

Is it a common thing for Austrians to just have a firing range they use regularly inside their house?

It's crazy how much this movie looks & feels like a TV show, as if it were an episode of Derry Girls with (most of) the jokes edited out. I'm not really sure how to judge whether this helped or hindered what the movie was going for, but it's something I kept noticing.

Overall very solid & engaging. I definitely felt more connected to the parents, struggling to deal with their daughter's increasingly erratic behavior, but my lingering memory of being an alienated teenager also bolstered my sense of dread, knowing that the parents were so out of touch that nothing they were doing was helping.

Extras:

Nice to have the related trailers.

Flora:

Definitely a nice choice to pair this with Lovely Rita, since you can see how they works as an extension of a lot of the feelings in this. Not completely the same, though, since there are fun little moments here that aren't in Lovely Rita.

Packaging:

Solid design, and I appreciate that it fits with the other two Hausner films released at the same time.

Badly wired outcast has enough with average but rigid societal bourgeoise bullshit that she can’t fit herself into, and slowly edges towards snapping.

Growing up in suburban Austria with a Dad named Norbert (of course) with a shooting range in the cellar while the subservient mother floats around the house ashen-faced like it’s the last place she wants to be will do that to an already disaffected teenager.

Features transgressive scenes of child endangerment and age gap relationships where you’d never consider them that push beyond accepted rules of behaviour and sits somewhere between Michael Haneke and Todd Solondz.

The best slipcover of the three Jessica Hausner films put out by VS.