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Year: 2012
Runtime: 99 min
Language: English
Director: Whit Stillman
When rebellious Violet, principled Rose, and charming Heather arrive at a drab East Coast College, they're determined to shake things up. With their "save-the-male" initiative, good hygiene, and upbeat dance numbers, they inspire change. But as romantic entanglements unfold with charismatic Charlie, dreamy Xavier, and the unpredictable Frank and Thor, their friendships are put to the test.
Warning: spoilers below!
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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.
Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 20:08
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