About Uptown Girls

"Uptown Girls (2003)" is an insightful comedy-drama featuring the life of Molly Gunn (Brittany Murphy), a carefree, childish, party-going adult who comes from a wealthy background. However, her life takes an unfortunate turn when she loses her inheritance and is forced to adapt to a lifestyle she isn't accustomed to. In the quest to settle, she takes up a job as a nanny to a stern, rigid, and grown-up 8-year-old, Ray (Dakota Fanning). The movie culminates the beautiful journey of Molly and her emotional evolution.
The movie, while having a humorous overtone embeds layered themes of transformation, friendship and growing beyond one's comfort zone.

Making/Production

The movie was directed by Boaz Yakin, produced by John Penotti, Fischer Stevens, and Allison Jacobs, and the script was written by Allison Jacobs. Released on August 15, 2003, by MGM Distribution Co., the movie is a visual representation of the societal shift in central characters and how they adapt to it.

Actors

• Brittany Murphy: As Molly Gunn, she played the part of an innocent and naive woman with poise. Her natural humor and false confidence made the character both funny and relatable.
• Dakota Fanning: Ray, a serious 8-year-old, was perfectly depicted by Fanning. Her mature acting gave an accurate depth to the role.
• Heather Locklear: Playing the role of Roma, Ray's negligent mother, she did a fantastic job in providing the grey scale in the vibrant plot.
• Jesse Spencer: As Neal, the love interest of Molly, Jesse played a charming but unsuccessful musician with a true essence.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• The clothes that Brittany Murphy wore in the film were her own.
• Brittany Murphy and Dakota Fanning became close friends after the movie and stayed in touch until Murphy's death in 2009.
• Jesse Spencer specifically learned to play the guitar for his role in the movie.

Quotes

• "Every story has an end. But in life, every ending is a new beginning." - Molly Gunn
• "I don't need a man." - Ray
• "You are just scared to live." - Molly Gunn

Music, Soundtrack

• “Time” by Chantal Kreviazuk
• “Someday” by Leigh Nash
• “The Trouble With Love Is” by Kelly Clarkson
• “Sheets of Egyptian Cotton” by Jesse Spencer