I'll Make You Happy

Set in the seedy underbelly of Auckland's red-light district, the 1985 New Zealand drama "I'll Make You Happy" delves into the gritty world of a teenage prostitute, Siggy, played by Jennifer Ward-Lealand. The film takes a unflinching look at the harsh realities of life on the streets, exposing the viewer to the brutal conditions and exploitation faced by those trapped in the sex industry. The protagonist, Siggy, a fiery and determined individual, embodies the spirit of resistance that fuels her quest for escape. She is a rebellious teenager, driven by a desire to transcend the circumstances that have defined her life. In the midst of this bleak environment, she finds solace in her own determination and resilience. As we immerse ourselves in Siggy's world, it becomes clear that she is no one-trick pony. She is a complex character, capable of deep emotions and strong connections. Her friendships with other streetwalkers, each with their unique stories and struggles, add depth to the narrative, and serve as a reminder that even in the darkest of places, there exists a sense of community and solidarity. Siggy's relationship with her pimp is central to the story, and it serves as a catalyst for her bold decision to take control of her future. His manipulation and control have become all too familiar to Siggy, but she begins to see an opportunity to break free from his grasp. The news that he is planning a lucrative drug deal sets her mind racing with possibilities. With this intelligence, she takes the first steps towards claiming agency over her life, setting in motion a chain of events that will change the course of her destiny. One of the strengths of the film lies in its refusal to sanitize or romanticize the sex trade. Instead, it provides a raw and unflinching portrayal of the brutal realities that Siggy and her peers face on a daily basis. The camera does not shy away from the harsh conditions, the violence, or the emotional toll exacted on these individuals. By presenting an unvarnished account of this world, the film educates and sensitizes the viewer, dispelling any lingering myths or misconceptions about those trapped in prostitution. The cinematography, too, plays a vital role in establishing the atmosphere of decay and desperation. The dingy streets, cramped brothels, and squalid living conditions serve as a backdrop for Siggy's story, imbuing the narrative with a sense of grit and realism. The use of dim lighting and muted colors only serves to heighten the sense of oppression, casting a pall of sadness over the scenes. As Siggy navigates this treacherous landscape, she finds herself torn between her loyalty to her friends and her desire for escape. Her bold plan to seize the drug money, while fraught with risks, represents a desperate attempt to secure her freedom. This pivotal moment marks a turning point in the story, and sets the stage for a thrilling and suspenseful conclusion. Throughout the film, Ward-Lealand delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Siggy. Her characterization brings depth and emotional resonance to the story, making it impossible not to become invested in her plight. With each passing scene, the complexity of Siggy's character emerges, revealing a young woman capable of both vulnerability and resilience. The narrative is peppered with moments of tenderness and humor, often arising from the relationships Siggy shares with her fellow streetwalkers. These interactions humanize the characters, making it easier to empathize with their struggles. In these quiet moments, we are reminded that even amidst the harsh realities of their existence, these women possess a capacity for love, compassion, and connection. Ultimately, "I'll Make You Happy" is a searing indictment of a society that permits such exploitation to occur. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need to acknowledge and address the systemic issues that perpetuate the sex trade. By shedding light on this neglected topic, the film performs a vital public service, humanizing those who are all too often reduced to stereotypes or anonymity. The story of Siggy and her fellow streetwalkers serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and resistance. In the face of overwhelming adversity, they find ways to assert their agency, forging a sense of autonomy and self-worth even in the most inhospitable of environments. This is a story about survival, about hope, and about the indomitable will to create a better future, one where these individuals can forge a path free from exploitation and violence.