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Produced by Amy Poehler, “Moxie” is a contemporary coming-of-age story that emphasizes themes of equality and feminism and shines a light on the gender discrimination that remains prevalent in today’s society.
Based on the novel of the same title by Jennifer Mathieu, “Moxie” follows Vivian (Hadley Robinson), a shy and quiet rising junior at her high school, who seems to have her life in order. When she and Claudia (Lauren Tsai) start their first day of junior year, they realize their fellow students are already thinking of who will be on the infamous “list,” where female students are awarded sexist superlatives such as “Most Bangable” or “Biggest Rack.” When new student Lucy Hernandez (Alycia Pascual-Peña) comes into the picture, Vivian realizes her high school may not be as seemingly normal as she once thought it was.
As Lucy opens Vivian’s eyes about the problems at their high school, Vivian becomes inspired by her own mother Lisa’s (Amy Poehler) rebellious history of fighting the patriarchy, and decides to take a stand at her high school.
After the list is published, Lucy becomes a victim of her own high school’s toxic status quo. In response, Vivian decides to publish a zine called “Moxie,” calling out her school’s problems with sexism. She publishes it anonymously but tells students at her high school through “Moxie” to take several actions, like drawing stars and hearts on their hands to show their solidarity.
Lucy’s influence on Vivian and their high school starts to spread when Mitchell Wilson (Patrick Schwarzenegger) starts to bully Lucy. Vivian tries to give Lucy advice, but Lucy explains to Vivian that while facing things head on may seem annoying at the time, the bullying problem will only become bigger if it’s swept under the rug.
Lucy’s persistence and determination to hold her head up high serves as a life lesson for the audience about the dangers of not holding people accountable when they are openly sexist.
While the publication of “Moxie” was admired by some students at first, the Moxie Club soon finds themselves in hot water: Claudia gets suspended, a shocking confession comes to light and Vivian realizes she must come forward and claim responsibility for “Moxie” in order to save her life, and high school, from falling apart.
While Vivian breaks a few rules, the overall message of the film is inspiring, as it teaches its audience the power of their voice. “Moxie” proves that it’s possible to not only be heard, but to create meaningful change.
