What Is 'Girl, Interrupted' About? Mental Health and Identity in Film

05.11.2023 - 19:16

'Girl, Interrupted' is a powerful memoir written by Susanna Kaysen, originally published in 1993. The book offers a compelling and deeply personal account of Kaysen's experiences as a young woman who spent 18 months in a psychiatric hospital in the late 1960s. It's a candid reflection on mental illness, the challenges of identity, and the fine line between sanity and madness.

The memoir was later adapted into a film in 1999, directed by James Mangold, with Winona Ryder playing the role of Susanna Kaysen and Angelina Jolie delivering an Academy Award-winning performance as her fellow patient, Lisa Rowe. This exploration will delve into the narrative of 'Girl, Interrupted' and dissect its central themes and characters, both in the book and the film.

Plot Summary

'Girl, Interrupted' is set in the late 1960s, and it begins with Susanna Kaysen (played by Winona Ryder) reflecting on her life as a young woman and her experiences at a psychiatric hospital. The story follows her journey through a tumultuous period in her life, marked by uncertainty, rebellion, and a growing sense of disconnection from the world around her.

After a suicide attempt, Susanna's parents admit her to Claymoore Hospital, a psychiatric institution. Initially, she believes that she will be there for only a brief evaluation, but she quickly realizes that her stay will be much longer. During her time at the hospital, Susanna interacts with a diverse group of patients, each struggling with their own mental health issues.

Among these patients is Lisa Rowe (played by Angelina Jolie), an outspoken and rebellious character who becomes a central figure in the story. Susanna is initially drawn to Lisa's charisma and fierce independence, even as she becomes aware of Lisa's disruptive and often manipulative behavior.

The narrative explores Susanna's experiences as a patient and her interactions with the hospital's staff, including Nurse Valerie (played by Whoopi Goldberg) and Dr. Wick (played by Vanessa Redgrave). Throughout the story, Susanna grapples with her own sense of identity, her relationships with her fellow patients, and the complex nature of mental illness.

Themes

1. Mental Health and Institutionalization

One of the central themes of 'Girl, Interrupted' is mental health and the impact of institutionalization. The story sheds light on the challenges of diagnosing and treating mental illnesses, particularly in the context of the late 1960s when psychiatric practices were different from contemporary approaches. Susanna's experiences in the hospital serve as a microcosm of the broader mental health landscape, exploring questions of who gets to define what is 'normal' and how society perceives individuals with mental health issues.

2. Identity and Rebellion

Susanna's journey is marked by a search for her own identity and a struggle against societal expectations. She's a young woman who doesn't fit into the conventional mold of her time, and her experiences with the other patients, especially Lisa, challenge her preconceived notions of herself. The narrative raises questions about conformity, individuality, and the right to self-determination.

3. Friendship and Connection

The relationships Susanna forms with her fellow patients are at the heart of the story. Her complex bond with Lisa is both compelling and tumultuous. Despite Lisa's erratic behavior, she becomes a figure of fascination and rebellion for Susanna. These connections highlight the significance of human relationships and support systems in the face of adversity.

4. Society's Stigma Around Mental Health

'Girl, Interrupted' reflects the prevailing social stigma surrounding mental health issues. Susanna's institutionalization is not only a personal experience but also a commentary on how society often treats and marginalizes individuals with mental illnesses. The story emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing these issues.

Characters

1. Susanna Kaysen (Winona Ryder)

Susanna is the central character and the story's narrator. Her character embodies vulnerability, introspection, and a sense of being out of place in the world. Throughout her journey, she evolves and gains insights into herself and the people around her.

2. Lisa Rowe (Angelina Jolie)

Lisa is a charismatic and unpredictable character. She forms a complex bond with Susanna, both alluring and dangerous. Lisa's rebellious nature and disregard for authority make her a magnetic but often destructive presence in the hospital.

3. Nurse Valerie (Whoopi Goldberg)

Nurse Valerie is a compassionate figure who genuinely cares for the patients. Her character stands in contrast to some of the other hospital staff, emphasizing the importance of compassionate and humane treatment in mental health care.

4. Dr. Wick (Vanessa Redgrave)

Dr. Wick is a psychiatrist at the hospital who evaluates and treats the patients. Her character raises questions about the psychiatric profession and its understanding of mental illness.

The Film Adaptation

In 1999, 'Girl, Interrupted' was adapted into a film that closely followed the narrative of the book. The film garnered significant attention, especially for Angelina Jolie's portrayal of Lisa Rowe, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The movie, like the book, explored the complexities of mental health, identity, and rebellion.

The adaptation brought the characters and their struggles to life, offering viewers a glimpse into the challenges of institutionalization and the strength of human connections. It successfully retained the essence of the book's central themes and characters.