When news broke in the late nineties that Susanna Kaysen’s 1993 memoir _Girl, Interrupted_ was being adapted into a film, several actresses apparently wanted to be part of the cast alongside a group of prominent female characters. Winona Ryder ultimately played Susanna Kaysen, a young woman who takes an overdose and is checked into a psychiatric hospital. During her time in the 1960s facility, she connects with other patients like Lisa, portrayed by Angelina Jolie, who exhibits sociopathic tendencies, and Polly, played by Elisabeth Moss, struggling with schizophrenia, as well as nurses including Valerie (Whoopi Goldberg). It’s hard to remember that when _Girl, Interrupted_ was released, Angelina Jolie's career was just beginning. This was long before films like *Tomb Raider*, *Changeling* and *Mr. & Mrs. Smith*. At the time, she had a few acting credits under her belt and one significant film (*Gia*). It’s quite remarkable that she was selected to portray such an intricate character as Lisa. Lisa is really what propels _Girl, Interrupted_ forward, and Jolie rightfully received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress—her sole Oscar so far. Susanna, the central figure and seemingly more stable mentally, largely goes along with events, sometimes appreciating the support of her roommate and other times caught up in Lisa’s unpredictable and destructive behavior. She doesn't contribute much to the story beyond providing a perspective through which to experience it. The film culminates in an impactful finale that lives up to what was initially suggested, but overall _Girl, Interrupted_ can’t ignore the fact that not a great deal truly transpires throughout its duration. Each of the women are institutionalized due to circumstances beyond their control, and their personalities are deeply connected to their conditions, making it challenging to discern their individual journeys toward healing. It's enjoyable enough to watch, particularly for Jolie’s performance, but not essential viewing.

Source on TMDB