Fitting In: All the Missing Female Pieces

A coming-of-age “traumedy” that follows 16-year-old Lindy (Maddie Ziegler) who is unexpectedly diagnosed with a reproductive condition, MRKH syndrome. The diagnosis upends her plans to have sex, her presumptions about womanhood and sexuality, her relationship with her mother (Emily Hampshire), and most importantly, herself.

REVIEW:

Fitting In is a coming of age dramedy that revolves around the main characters Lindy (Maddie Ziegler) discovery, that she has MRKH-a rare congenital disorder that affects the female reproductive system. This condition is characterized by an underdeveloped vagina and uterus. The uterus may be small or absent and the vagina is typically shortened.

The movie is based on the directors, Molly McGlynn’s own true story. It never really downplays or sugarcoats the real life complications, struggles and decisions that Lindy faces and must make, while still fitting into the standard conventions of teen comedy.

This is a more emotionally nuanced and layered teen film. It delves deeper into its gender and sex themes-with more warmth.

Ziegler delivers a well thought out performance. It’s open-minded and unafraid. She’s poignant in scenes that call for her to acknowledge Lindy’s own sexual shortcomings. Ziegler’s performance is inhabited and feels genuine, real.

Fitting In fits in well with the fitting in questions asked by all teen dramas. How to be yourself in the age of social media, finding your true confidence are the new universal teen film issues. Lindy’s condition is more embarrassing than most but she still gets and earns the standard liberation that comes with embracing one’s true self.

Director McGlynn has made a small independent film that channels her personal story into universal themes. Its sincere, entertaining and uncomfortable in all the good ways. To its credit, it destigmatizes MRKH from its fears and misconceptions.