Lick the Star

Main Plot

"Lick the Star," a short film by Sofia Coppola, explores the dynamics of adolescent life and the complexities of social hierarchies in a middle school setting. The story unfolds through the eyes of a group of seventh-grade girls who devise a plan inspired by the novel "Flowers in the Attic" to subtly poison the boys at their school. This plan, however, is more about asserting control and navigating the treacherous waters of teenage popularity than actual harm. The film captures the essence of youthful rebellion and the desire for power within the microcosm of a school environment. As the plot progresses, the girls' scheme begins to unravel, leading to unintended consequences that challenge their friendships and social standings. Themes of peer pressure, the loss of innocence, and the fleeting nature of popularity are central to the narrative. Coppola's direction emphasizes the emotional turbulence of adolescence, using a black-and-white aesthetic to underscore the stark realities faced by the characters. The film's portrayal of the fragility of social structures and the impact of rumors and betrayal resonates with the universal experience of growing up, making it a poignant reflection on the trials of youth.

Characters

• Christina Turley is the queen bee antagonist, orchestrating a plan to poison boys at school, driving the plot's exploration of teenage power dynamics and betrayal.
• Audrey Kelly is a popular, manipulative middle school girl who orchestrates a plan inspired by "Flowers in the Attic," leading to chaos and betrayal among her peers.
• Julia Vanderham plays a pivotal role as the school's popular girl, whose influence and actions drive the central conflict and dynamics among the students.

Ending Explained

In the film's conclusion, the central character, Chloe, faces the fallout of her plan to poison the boys at her school with arsenic-laced lunches, inspired by her fascination with the book 'Flowers in the Attic.' Her scheme unravels when her best friend, Kate, betrays her by revealing the plot to the school authorities. This betrayal marks a turning point, leading to Chloe's social downfall. As the plan is exposed, Chloe becomes ostracized by her peers, losing her status as the queen bee of the school. The once tight-knit group of girls disbands, highlighting the fragility of their alliances and the consequences of their actions. Chloe's isolation is compounded by the realization of her own vulnerability and the superficial nature of her previous power. The ending underscores themes of betrayal, the fleeting nature of popularity, and the harsh realities of adolescent social dynamics. Chloe's fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of manipulation and the importance of genuine relationships. The film closes with a sense of ambiguity about Chloe's future, leaving viewers to ponder the long-term impact of her actions and the possibility of redemption or continued alienation.