The teenage era of creating a self-image leads to cinematic misdirection in Toxic. This is a dark and detrimental drama that fueled the 60th Chicago International Film Festival. Teens and beauty which combine in a recipe of courage and self-destruction. Written and directed by Saule Bliuvaite, there is a lot of turmoil among the adolescents in Toxic. The subject ofpopularity provides a constructive setup, and the country ofLithuania provides an interesting setting.  The rural areas lead toboredom. Therefore, the teens aspire to feel a sense of connection to reality, as well as a sense of purpose. Toxic is a title with layers to its context. The poor choices the kids make cause a deranged ride where pleasure and popularity are no easy game.

The film focuses on Marija (played by Vesta Matulyte) who lives with her grandmother in an industrial area. She makes a new friend named Kristina (played by Leva Rupeikaite) who is stubborn, rebellious, and does what she can to feel cool. Marija learns from Kristina how to be a rebel. They both have dreams of becoming fashion models, so they enroll in a modeling school. Their behaviors are intertwined—drugs, sex, partying, and so much more. Their focus on being “cool” causes them to hit some harsh plateaus which portray teenage angst and disconnect. Bliuvaite’s direction results in an international sensation created through showcasing a mixture of risky behaviors and associated thrills. This film is a portrait of howyouthful generations still have much to learn. Four out of four stars for Toxic.