2008 Woodie Awards
Hard Candy Doesn't Sugarcoat Its Serious Subject Matter
Kalene McCort
Issue date: 4/14/06 Section: Arts & Entertainment
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Don't get me wrong, technology has made our lives easier in a sense and I myself am guilty of taking advantage of certain web perks. What can match the joy that is felt while researching term papers from bed in your Sponge Bob Square Pants pj's or saving money on those long distance phone calls by opting to send a speedy email to a friend instead. But seriously, the growing popularity of Facebook, MySpace, and even eHarmony has got me asking: Are we all a bunch of voyeuristic freaks? Is the internet just another outlet for self expression and healthy interaction or a breeding ground for people to stretch the truth about their true selves?
The indie film "Hard Candy" which played recently at our very own Florida Film Festival, explored this controversial topic. With its psychologically disturbing dialogue and imagery, this flick had the audience choking on their Skittles while simultaneously squirming in their seats. The film opens with what seems like an innocent session of instant messaging between lensman319 and thongggrrrrl14. Leaving their alias screen names at home the two decide to move away from the mouse pad and keyboard and meet in person at a local coffee shop. The first time we see Hayley Stark, played by Ellen Page, she appears naive, innocently taking great pleasure in a tasty piece of confectionary goodness. Her body and face, although cute, have a sense of pre-pubescent androgyny that is hard to ignore. Beneath her honey brown pixie-cut and bright eyes lies a mystery. Film viewers begin to wonder, does she possess a certain sensuality? Is she just a troubled teen looking for love, or a raging psycho? After all, she playfully informs 32-year-old photog Jeff Kohlver, played by Patrick Wilson, that she is certifiable nuts, "four out of five doctors agree".
Against his better judgment, Jeff takes a chance and the two venture back to his place in his metallic-colored mini cooper, but not before unusual, intellectual, flirtatious banter is exchanged and Jeff literally kisses Hayley's feet.
Tension builds in the car ride and when the cyber buddies reach Jeff's pad the two indulge in some screwdrivers made by underage Hayley. Intrigued by the artsy model shots strewn along the halls of Jeff's home, Hayley inquires about the breathtaking females in each picture. Just when we think the alcohol may have sent her inhibitions out the window, Jeff begins to look a little queasy and collapses while taking photos of Hayley in her sports bra jumping and dancing on his couch.