Question about Starlet (2012)
Starlet was the second film I saw from Sean Baker, the first one being The Florida Project which I liked a lot. I also enjoyed Starlet a lot, despite having some issues with it. But there is one scene in particular which I didn't feel I fully understood.
That scene is the very last scene in the film, when Jane finds out Sadie had a deceased daughter. What is so remarkable about this scene is that it is the last scene in the film and the scene is played very dramatically which is tonally in odds to the rest of the film. It is obvious that this was supposed to be a major reveal that would chance the context of the film. But I just don't fully understand the levity of this reveal. Just before this scene, there is a scene in which Melissa reveals to Sadie that Jane befriended Sadie just because Jane was feeling guilty. At first Sadie seems to be upset, unpacking her suitcase, then she goes to the garden and changes her mind. Is the idea that Sadie is "using" Jane to fill the void left behind by her deceased daughter and thus it would be hypocritical of her to be mad at Jane because they both have personal/"selfish" reasons to be with one another. Could the premise of the film be that every relationship is based on personal reasons as the film certainly doesn't portray any healthy relationships? Please share your thoughts on any readings of the film!