White Oleander 2002
White Oleander tells the unforgettable story of Astrid, whose difficult journey through a series of foster homes in Los Angeles turns into a journey of self-discovery – each with its own rules, dangers, and hard lessons to learn. Adapted from Janet Finch’s bestselling book White Oleander, the film follows the story of a young woman transitioning from hardship and maturity to joy and true independence. After her uncompromising yet captivating mother Ingrid (MICHELLE PFEIFFER) is arrested for killing her boyfriend and abandoning her, 15-year-old Astrid (ALISON LOMAN) witnesses the event that will change both of their lives. Suddenly alone, young Astrid visits several orphanages (and a few foster mothers including ROBIN WRIGHT PENN and RENE SELWEGER) before giving in and struggling to learn the techniques she needs to survive in a often violent world. Astrid is eager to adapt her personality to the ever-changing environment. The powerful influence of Ingrid behind bars is the only constant in Astrid’s life. For better or for worse… In the three years of transition from childhood to adulthood, Astrid must learn to value courage and independence, anger and forgiveness, love and survival in order to break free from the past.
