Smooth Talk
Smooth Talk

Smooth Talk

1985Movie92 minEnglish

Connie, the fifteen-year-old black sheep of her family, finds her summertime idyll of beach trips, mall hangouts, and innocent flirtations shattered by an encounter with a mysterious stranger.

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Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic80/100
Google Users78%
Director: Joyce ChopraGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

A 15-year-old girl named Connie is exploring her burgeoning sexuality and independence during a summer vacation in the suburbs. She meets a charismatic and older man, Arnold Friend, who sweeps her off her feet. However, as their relationship intensifies, Connie begins to realize the danger and manipulative nature of Arnold's advances, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of adulthood and the consequences of her choices.

Critical Reception

Smooth Talk was critically acclaimed upon its release, praised for its sensitive and unflinching portrayal of teenage female sexuality and its mature exploration of themes like vulnerability, manipulation, and the transition into womanhood. The performances, particularly Laura San Giacomo's debut, were widely lauded.

What Reviewers Say

  • Hailed for its raw and honest depiction of adolescent awakening.
  • Praised Laura San Giacomo's breakout, nuanced performance.
  • Acknowledged for its sophisticated handling of sensitive themes without sensationalism.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's realistic portrayal of teenage experiences and praised the lead performances for their authenticity. Some viewers found the subject matter intense but ultimately rewarding.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic at the 1986 Sundance Film Festival.

Fun Fact

Laura San Giacomo's performance in 'Smooth Talk' was her feature film debut and earned her significant recognition, launching her acting career.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
clipper314

clipper314

Based on a short story by Joyce Carol Oates called "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?", "Smooth Talk" stars Laura Dern as a bored and restless adolescent who thinks she's more in control of her sexual allure, and more capable of han...