Square Dance (1987)

Film Overview
"Square Dance" is a poignant 1987 drama film directed by Daniel Petrie and starring Jason Robards, Jane Alexander, and Rob Lowe. The story is embeded in two contrasting environments, rural Texas and the urban landscape of Fort Worth, as the lead character, a young girl called Gemma, moves between her grandpa's home and her mom's house. The movie script, written by Alan Hines, delivers a thought-provoking exploration of relationships, coming of age, and the look for one's identity.

Main Plot
The movie opens with 13-year-old Gemma Dillard (Winona Ryder) living a basic, yet isolated life on her grandpa Dillard's (Jason Robards) ranch in Texas. Grandpa Dillard is a rigorous yet caring guardian who teaches Gemma practicality, survival, sincerity, and responsibility-- values fundamental to the rural lifestyle.

However, her life experiences a substantial shift when she receives an invitation from her estranged mom, Juanelle (Jane Alexander), to stick with her in Fort Worth. The city represents a world unacquainted by Gemma, bringing an opportunity to understand her mother, who left her as a child to pursue a career as a vocalist in the honky-tonk bars.

Life in the City
In the city, Gemma experiences a rapid transition from serene country life to the bustling urban landscape. She gets registered in school and encounters teenage years's intricacies, consisting of peer pressure, conformity, and romantic interests. Here, she satisfies Rory (Rob Lowe), a psychologically challenged young man with a childlike purity that draws in Gemma.

Gemma's Dilemma
Gemma discovers herself brought in to Rory, identifying with his innocence and straight-out simplicity, stark similarities to her life in rural Texas. However, Rory's sibling, a controlling, manipulative figure, their relationship, resulting in significant disputes.

On the other hand, Gemma also struggles to develop a relationship with her mother, whose lifestyle is leaked in alcoholism and dissatisfactions. The lack of psychological warmth and the plain contrast between the two-way life pull Gemma into an extreme psychological issue.

The Homecoming
As the turmoil of city and domesticity become overwhelming, something inside Gemma draws her back to the constraints and simple way of life of her grandfather's cattle ranch. The story closes with an emotional homecoming where she recognizes that her grandpa's land, the tasks, the rustic lifestyle, and the values imbued throughout her training are an essential part of her identity.

Last Thoughts
"Square Dance" is a stirring expedition of a young girl's journey through the obstacles of adolescence, relationships, and self-discovery. As Gemma moves in between two exceptionally various worlds, she tries to strike a balance, ultimately understanding where she truly belongs. Through poignant efficiencies and a moving story, the film represents the emotional indebtedness of a woman to her roots and the significance of remaining true to oneself.

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