Brace yourself for a coming-of-age story that will get under your skin. Tiger Stripes, the critically acclaimed debut film by director Amanda Nell Eu, is out today.
This unique film tackles the complexities of puberty through a haunting lens of female body horror. Zaffan, a rebellious 12-year-old, experiences a horrifying transformation as her body begins to change. Struggling to maintain normalcy at school, Zaffan desperately tries to hide her transformations, leading to a growing sense of isolation and fear.
As Zaffan’s anxieties rise, a wave of mass hysteria engulfs the school. Rumors of a dark presence and bizarre physical manifestations spread like wildfire. A visiting doctor arrives, determined to banish the supposed demon plaguing the school. Tragically, his misguided investigation leads him to Zaffan, wrongly accusing her of causing the chaos.
Faced with public humiliation and the doctor’s extreme methods, Zaffan undergoes a profound transformation. Like a cornered tiger, she sheds her inhibitions and unleashes her rage. She channels her fear and frustration into a powerful display of self-discovery.
Tiger Stripes is more than just a horror film; it’s a potent exploration of female identity and the societal anxieties surrounding puberty. Eu’s masterful direction and the raw performance of the young actress portraying Zaffan create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
The film has garnered critical acclaim on the festival circuit, receiving awards at prestigious festivals like Cannes, the Neuchatel International Fantastic Film Festival, and the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival.
Catch Tiger Stripes, rated “fresh” at 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, on VOD from Dark Star Pictures starting July 9th.
