Great analysis, Laura.
This is an empowerment story, but your take really nails it specificity, associated with an era (70s) and the rise of the feminist…
Great analysis, Laura. I love that you caught that visual change: back seat to driving (her ability at driving, or actually lack thereof, is something referred to in dialogue earlier in the story). And drive she does! With reckless abandon, but always with a purpose.
This is an empowerment story, but your take really nails it specificity, associated with an era (70s) and the rise of the feminist movement.
The racial dynamic is also there and an inspired choice by Hart & Horowitz. When it's revealed that Cal is *forced* to take on the role of Jean's handler, it evokes a sense of him being 'enslaved' to the whims of his 'masters.' But with the introduction of Cal's family, the racial dynamic transforms into something more complex. The fact there are some key interaction scenes between Teri and Jean actually bridges race and gender, two women, one white, one black, banding together to get through a really shitty situation and survive.
Strong analysis, Laura. I'm happy to be able reflect on *your* reflections!
NOTE: Side benefit from setting the movie in the 70s? No cellphones! Imagine how much more challenging the plotting process would have been if characters had easy access to cellphones.