'Loving Annabelle', 2006

‘Loving Annabelle’ (2006) was certainly an interesting watch. Directed by Katherine Brooks, the movie takes place at a Catholic boarding school, where the main character Annabelle has been sent after being expelled from two previous schools. Simone Bradley is the teacher in charge of Annabelle’s dorm, and ultimately, also in charge of keeping Annabelle in check. Though Simone continually resists Annabelle’s flirtatious advances, it turns out she’s kind of bad at ‘keeping her in check’. After the two are left alone at the school for spring break, Simone drives Annabelle to her nearby beach house, where the two share an emotional connection. I’ll spare you any more details but I’m sure you can image where things end up.

Some things I liked: This is the type of movie I’d put on when I’m having a few drinks with some friends, so we could laugh at it together. (Speaking of people who do exactly that, you should watch some episodes of ‘Drunk Lesbians Watch’ on YouTube. They have an episode for this movie!). If you don’t take it too seriously, it’s a fun watch. Especially if you feel nostalgic about the early 2000s.

Some things I didn’t like: Well, I mean, the basic plot is kind of off-putting, considering how completely inappropriate it is! I didn’t want them to be together for many reasons, but it seems like the audience is supposed to root for their ‘love story’, even though it’s messed up. And because the two main characters are queer, it seems like it could be easy for more conservative viewers (or even just more ignorant viewers) to conflate being a lesbian with being involved in inappropriate love affairs.

Five words I’d use to describe this film: well-intentioned, but still inappropriate

My queer take: Is their sex scene passionate and fun to watch? For sure. Is it possible to ignore the inappropriate nature of their relationship while you’re watching it? No way. I guess it wasn’t the worst movie I’ve ever seen, but it’s not the type of movie I’d watch over and over again - once was enough for me. 76% of viewers on Rotten Tomatoes liked it, but I have a strong feeling this might be due to thirsty dudebros (or thirsty queers - you never know!). The movie is loosely based on a German film called ‘Mädchen in Uniform’, which was made in 1931 and banned for a while after its release. I’ve heard more positive things about it, so it’s also on my list to watch.

Fun fact: The DVD release contains an alternate ending to the movie (but I won’t spoil it for you!).