Damsels in Distress 2012
Directed by
Whit Stillman
Made by
Sony Pictures Classics
Plot Summary
At Seven Oaks University, newly transferred student Lily finds herself sharing a living space with a unique group of friends: Violet, Heather, and Rose. This close-knit clique operates the campus’s suicide prevention center, a rather unconventional initiative where they attempt to uplift depressed and suicidal students through offerings of donuts and the joyous art of tap dancing. As preparations for a party commence, Violet, who is romantically involved with fellow student Frank, shares her intriguing perspective on love by admitting that she often gravitates toward less attractive men to boost their self-esteem.
In a pivotal moment, Violet comforts Priss, whose relationship with her boyfriend Josh has just ended. However, this act of kindness quickly turns complicated when Violet finds herself sharing a passionate kiss with Frank. The tension escalates as Violet and Rick DeWolfe, the editor of the college newspaper The Daily Complainer, engage in a battle of wits. Violet perceives DeWolfe as insufferably arrogant, yet Lily challenges her, suggesting that Violet shares this same flaw.
As Violet navigates the complexities of her love life, she begins a relationship with Charlie Walker, whose true identity is humorously unveiled as Fred Packenstacker. However, the friendship between Violet and Lily grows tenuous after Violet witnesses Charlie dancing with Lily, prompting her to step back from the relationship.
The situation takes a dramatic turn when a celebratory event for the Roman letter fraternities escalates into chaos, leading to the banishment of these groups, much to the satisfaction of DeWolfe, who has long harbored resentment against them. Meanwhile, Frank encourages Violet to offer support to the fraternity students at the suicide prevention center. With a heart full of determination, Violet devises a plan to improve conditions in Doar Dorm, notorious for its high fatality rates and poor sanitation. She believes that distributing soap packets will positively impact the students’ state of mind. To her delight, two students make use of the showers, a small victory for the clique.
Ultimately, after a heartfelt reconciliation with Lily, Violet embarks on a new venture by launching her very own dance phenomenon, the Sambola, showcasing her growth and creativity amidst life’s ups and downs.
Timeline
Lily's Arrival
Newly transferred student Lily arrives at Seven Oaks University, seeking to start her new life. Instantly, she shares a living space with a unique group of friends, including Violet, Heather, and Rose, who become central to her experience.
The Suicide Prevention Center
Lily discovers that her new friends operate a rather unconventional suicide prevention center on campus. They seek to uplift depressed students through sweet gestures like donuts and the joyous practice of tap dancing.
Violet's Love Philosophy
During party preparations, Violet shares her intriguing perspective on love, revealing her tendency to date less attractive men to help boost their self-esteem. Her insights spark interesting conversations among the group.
Comforting Priss
In a pivotal moment, Violet comforts Priss after her breakup with Josh. This act of kindness becomes complicated when Violet unexpectedly shares a passionate kiss with Frank during this emotional exchange.
Tension with DeWolfe
Violet enters a battle of wits with Rick DeWolfe, the arrogant editor of the college newspaper. Their interactions reveal underlying tensions, showcasing Violet's confrontational side and prompting Lily to challenge Violet's attitude.
Violet and Charlie's Relationship
Violet begins dating Charlie Walker, whose true identity as Fred Packenstacker is humorously revealed. The relationship brings excitement but also introduces new complexities and challenges for Violet.
Growing Tensions with Lily
After witnessing Charlie dancing with Lily, Violet's friendship with her begins to strain. This moment of jealousy prompts Violet to reconsider her relationship with Charlie and how it affects her bond with Lily.
Fraternity Chaos
A celebratory event for the Roman letter fraternities spirals into chaos, resulting in their banishment from campus. This turn of events offers a sense of victory for DeWolfe, who had long resented fraternity life.
Violet's Support Initiative
In a show of empathy, Frank encourages Violet to extend support to fraternity students at the suicide prevention center. Violet takes on this challenge with determination, seeking ways to improve conditions for all students.
Improving Doar Dorm
Violet devises a plan to distribute soap packets in Doar Dorm, hoping to address its high fatality rates and sanitation issues. Joyously, she learns that students begin using the showers, marking a positive impact.
Reconciliation with Lily
After a period of tension, Violet and Lily reconcile, restoring their friendship. This heartfelt moment leads to shared understanding and support as they navigate their challenges together.
Violet's Dance Launch
Embracing her growth and creativity, Violet embarks on a new venture by launching her own dance phenomenon, the Sambola. This initiative symbolizes her resilience and ability to overcome life's ups and downs.
Characters
Lily
Lily is a newly transferred student who seeks to find her place among a unique group of friends. Her journey explores themes of belonging and self-discovery as she navigates the complexities of college life. Lily serves as a grounding presence amidst her friends' antics, often challenging Violet when needed.
Violet
Violet serves as a central figure in the group, leading the efforts in their unconventional suicide prevention initiative. Ambitious and caring, she struggles with her romantic interests while managing her friendships. Violet's character development is marked by her journey towards self-acceptance and understanding the complexities of love.
Heather
Heather is part of Violet's tight-knit group, contributing her own flair to their activities. While her role may seem more supportive, she embodies the spirit of friendship that binds the characters together, bringing levity and fun to the mix. Her character adds dimension to the central theme of camaraderie.
Rose
Rose is another member of the group, characterized by her light-hearted attitude and willingness to participate in various initiatives. She contributes to the supportive environment of their living space, helping her friends navigate personal challenges with humor and positivity.
Frank
Frank is Violet's romantic interest, whose relationship with her adds tension to the group dynamics. His character embodies the complexities of young love and self-esteem issues, providing a counterpoint to Violet's strong personality. His interactions impact both Violet and Lily significantly.
Rick DeWolfe
Rick serves as the editor of the college newspaper, characterized by his arrogance and wit. His rivalry with Violet encapsulates the tension between confidence and humility. His role explores themes of competition and personal growth as he navigates his relationship with the other characters.
Setting
Time period
The movie captures contemporary college life, highlighting the pressures and complexities faced by students today. Themes of mental health, relationships, and self-discovery resonate throughout the narrative, reflecting current societal issues.
Location
Seven Oaks University
Seven Oaks University is a vibrant academic institution known for its diverse student body and rich campus life. The university's suicide prevention center is a unique initiative run by students, aiming to uplift those in distress. Its lively atmosphere serves as a backdrop for friendship, drama, and personal growth.
Themes
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Love and Heartbreak
The film explores the multifaceted nature of love and its challenges, particularly through Violet's romantic entanglements. It touches on self-esteem and the dynamics between attraction and personal worth, demonstrating how relationships can impact one's emotional state. The ups and downs of love serve as a catalyst for character growth.
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Friendship
Friendship is central to the film, emphasizing the importance of support and camaraderie among the characters. As Violet and Lily navigate their complicated relationship, the film showcases how friendships can endure trials and foster personal development. The unique bond shared by the clique demonstrates the power of solidarity in overcoming challenges.
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Self-Expression
Self-expression is vividly portrayed through the characters' engagement in dance and creative endeavors. Violet's decision to launch the Sambola symbolizes her growth and desire to connect with others through art. The film celebrates individual creativity as a means of coping with life's challenges and fostering joy.
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