The transition from high school to college has served as the backdrop for countless films. This uncertain time, where kids thrust themselves into the future and realize their futures, makes for a great film experience. Acid Test uses this premise but fails to really connect with its audience.
Juliana Destefano plays Jennifer, a Texas teenager in 1992 who dreams of following in her father’s footsteps by attending Harvard. She begins her senior year with classes on the upcoming election. She has a normal, loving family. Her best friend Drea (Mai Le) constantly listens to music with her. Drea is to attend UT-Austin, throwing a wrench into Jennifer’s plans. Should she leave Texas for the lofty halls of Cambridge?
The movie doesn’t show us enough of the relationship between the two before they split apart. The “riot grrl” music of the 90s is an enticing soundtrack, but the drama feels inadequate because it’s not entirely explored. Juliana, a 4.0 honors student, soon becomes romantically entangled with Owen (Reece Everett Ryan), who introduces her to the world of LSD. Soon, she starts questioning her own life. Does she want to go to Harvard? Or do her parents want her to go?
Acid Test is somewhat inconsistent but has great moments. When Jennifer is tripping the lighting and color palette of the film becomes intense, mirroring Jennifer’s own experience. The film has its family drama, but the tension doesn’t truly come across effectively. Jennifer Waldo's drama title would work well in public libraries for historians of this era and fans of the riot grrl scene, as well as for film programming centered on female directors.