Carrie Pilby (2017)
Awkward, isolated and disapproving of most of the people around her, a precocious 19-year-old genius is challenged to put her convictions to the test by venturing out on to the NYC dating scene.
Details
Budget
$0
Rating
7/10 (432 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Braveart Films
About Carrie Pilby
"Carrie Pilby" is a comedy-drama centered on a 19-year-old genius navigating the complexities of post-graduate life in New York City. The narrative explores themes of isolation and social integration as Carrie, played by Bel Powley, confronts her cynical worldview and reluctance to engage with others. Her journey is sparked by a challenge to explore dating and social experiences, pushing her beyond her intellectual comfort zone into emotional development.
The film uses Carrie's exceptional intelligence as both a source of her detachment and a catalyst for her growth. Her struggle to connect with peers and her difficulties communicating with her father are central to the plot. The story builds on a familiar coming-of-age structure, focusing on the character's internal conflicts and external interactions as she attempts to reconcile her intelligence with the demands of everyday life. This allows the film to delve into the nuances of an extraordinary individual learning to adapt to ordinary social conventions.
The portrayal of Carrie Pilby stands out due to its grounding in the character's intellectual superiority and the subsequent social awkwardness it creates. The film blends humor with dramatic elements, reflecting the often-uncomfortable transition from adolescence to adulthood, especially for someone with a unique perspective. Directed by a woman, the movie offers a specific lens into the experiences of a young woman grappling with identity, expectations, and the search for genuine connection.
Why you might be searching for Carrie Pilby
People search for "Carrie Pilby" to find details about the smart, isolated protagonist, her unique perspective on life, and her journey through the NYC dating scene. Many are curious about the performance of Bel Powley in the title role, especially given the character's genius intellect and social challenges.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer noted that the film was better than expected, describing it as a coming-of-age story about a highly intelligent 19-year-old girl struggling to adapt to the real world after finishing her education, particularly in her relationship with her father.
Read the full reviewA reviewer described the movie as a good watch and a "coming of age" story about an extraordinary young woman seeking her identity, despite possessing advantages like a photographic memory, a Harvard degree, and financial support, which make her problems seem less severe to some.
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You can stream *Carrie Pilby* on Prime Video and Apple TV. It was also released on Netflix in September 2017.
*Carrie Pilby* is not based on a true story, but rather on the best-selling novel of the same name by Caren Lissner.
As Carrie works through the to-do list her therapist gives her, her views on relationships, sex, and humanity change. The film shows her emotional maturity catching up with her intellectual prowess, leading to a happy ending where she starts to find joy and connection.
*Carrie Pilby* has received mixed to positive reviews, with a 65% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics generally praise Bel Powley's compelling performance as Carrie, noting that it carries the film despite some predictable elements.