Deep Dive: Girls State (2024)
Film Lens
Girls State is a 2024 documentary directed by Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine, focusing on teenage girls from Missouri participating in a week-long democratic experiment. The film follows three main participants: Emily Worthmore, who runs for Governor representing the Federalist Party; Nisha Murali, who aspires to be a Supreme Court Justice; and Tochi Ihekona, who aims to become Attorney General. The documentary contrasts the Girls State program with Boys State, examining the differing perceptions of their political significance.
The narrative culminates in the election results, where Cecilia Barton is elected Governor and Tochi Ihekona becomes Attorney General. Despite losing her gubernatorial bid, Emily Worthmore receives a scholarship. The film features a diverse cast and addresses significant topics such as abortion rights and the importance of serious political discourse among young women.
Why Watch
- •Meet Emily Worthmore, a Federalist Party candidate.
- •Follow Nisha Murali's quest for Supreme Court Justice.
- •See the election results at Girls State unfold.
Did You Know
•Girls State premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 18, 2024.
•Cecilia Barton won the election for Governor at Girls State.
•Tochi Ihekona, a Black progressive girl, aimed to be Attorney General.
•The film has a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 60 reviews.
Perfect For
Teen political engagementDocumentary enthusiastsYoung women's leadership