STARLET

Sean Baker's unusual character study follows the improbable friendship that develops between Jane, a rootless 21-year-old porn actress and Sadie, a prickly octogenarian who accidentally sells her a thermos full of cash at a yard sale. Jane's unspoken attempts to “repay” her debt to Sadie result in a combative yet tender mother-daughter dynamic. Baker juxtaposes this transaction against the stark economic realities of Jane's profession. Beautifully shot in the sun-blasted San Fernando Valley, STARLET has a strong sense of place, an unforced naturalism and a refreshingly matter-of-fact approach to its porn industry setting. Featuring a breakout performance by Dree Hemingway (daughter of Mariel) and the film debut of 85-year-old Besedka Johnson (who was discovered in a Los Angeles gym), STARLET is that rare film about female friendship, which also explores the delicate bonds we forge to build surrogate families. —Matt Cornell