Eighth Grade is vulnerable, relatable, and empathetic. The discomfort of puberty is universally understood, but this film goes a step further by connecting modern technology to exacerbated self-consciousness. Also, the dialogue is natural, insightful, and touching. The characters are clearly defined (aided by authentic, synergistic, and charismatic acting). The plot flows like real life, yet subtly builds towards an arc of self-discovery. This coming-of-age template is a trope, but Eighth Grade injects it with genuineness, respect, and profound social commentary. Furthermore, it's funny and bookended with a relevant narrative device. Thus, Eighth Grade is emotionally powerful.
Technically, Eighth Grade is playfully clever. Its direction structures the acts with YouTube monologues and tonally blends drama with humor. There's cinematic movement, framing, composition, and lighting. The editing is natural yet overdramatic, reflecting emotions with montages, crossfades, split cuts, intercuts, and varied pacing. Meanwhile, the sound utilizes layered volumes, abstract muffling, silence, and symbolic closeness. Plus, the soundtrack gets exaggerated, trans-diegetic, rhythmic, hypnotic, and whimsical. Finally, the casting landed a major win with Fisher. Overall, Eighth Grade supports stellar emotions with personal filmmaking, resulting in timeless nostalgia.
Writing: 10/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 7/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 8.3/10
Comments