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Janet Planet poster

Janet Planet (2024)

Movie113mins

Where to watch Janet Planet in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Janet Planet

In rural Western Massachusetts, 11-year-old Lacy spends the summer of 1991 at home, enthralled by her own imagination and the attention of her mother, Janet. As the months pass, three visitors enter their orbit, all captivated by Janet.

Year
2024
Genres
Drama
Runtime
113mins
Director
Annie Baker

Janet Planet trailer

Janet Planet trailerPlay video: Janet Planet trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Janet Planet, directed by Annie Baker, is a beautifully crafted exploration of childhood set in the rural charm of Western Massachusetts during the summer of 1991. The film tells the story of Lacy, an imaginative 11-year-old, and her relationship with her mother, Janet. Baker's direction is subtle yet impactful, allowing the characters to breathe and evolve throughout the narrative. The performances are particularly noteworthy, with the actress portraying Janet delivering a captivating performance that draws the attention of not only Lacy but also the three intriguing visitors who enter their lives. Each character brings a unique dynamic, contributing to Lacy’s understanding of the world around her. The cinematography complements the storytelling, capturing the essence of a summer filled with nostalgia and warmth. The film invites viewers to reflect on their own childhoods and the fleeting nature of innocence. Overall, Janet Planet is a thoughtful and engaging film that resonates deeply with its audience, making it a worthwhile watch.

Editor Team

★★★★★3.5/5

Janet Planet is one of those films that wraps you in a warm, nostalgic blanket yet leaves you pondering the complexities of growing up. Set in the summer of 1991, it follows young Lacy and her captivating mother, Janet. The film unfolds slowly, allowing us to soak in the little moments that define their relationship, but it might feel a bit slow for some viewers. The performances are genuine, especially from the actress portraying Janet, who perfectly embodies the magnetic charm that draws others to her. The three visitors bring an interesting twist, but their roles sometimes feel underdeveloped, leaving me wanting a bit more depth. While the film isn’t scary, it does evoke a sense of longing and reflection. Janet Planet is ultimately about the bittersweet nature of childhood and the inevitable changes that come with growing up. It’s a film that may resonate more with those who appreciate character-driven stories, making it a decent pick for a quiet evening.

How viewers describe this

  • nostalgic
  • heartfelt
  • bittersweet
  • charming
  • introspective
  • emotional
  • slow-paced
  • engaging
  • reflective
  • warm
  • underdeveloped
  • captivating

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Janet Planet?

Is Janet Planet worth watching?

Yes, Janet Planet is definitely worth watching. It offers a poignant exploration of childhood imagination and maternal bonds set against the backdrop of rural Massachusetts in the early 90s. The film's unique storytelling and character development create a rich viewing experience that resonates with audiences.

What is Janet Planet really about?

Janet Planet revolves around 11-year-old Lacy, who spends her summer in 1991 captivated by her mother, Janet. The film delves into their relationship as well as the impact of three visitors who become fascinated by Janet. It beautifully captures themes of imagination, memory, and the complexities of growing up.

Is Janet Planet suitable for children?

Janet Planet is suitable for older children and teenagers, as it touches on themes of imagination and family dynamics. However, parents may want to watch it first to assess its appropriateness for younger viewers, as some emotional themes may require maturity to fully understand.

What happens at the end of Janet Planet?

At the end of Janet Planet, Lacy comes to terms with her evolving relationship with her mother and the visitors who have entered their lives. The final moments encapsulate a bittersweet reflection on childhood and the inevitable changes that come with growing up. (Spoiler Alert)

Where can I watch Janet Planet in Australia?

In Australia, Janet Planet can be streamed on various platforms, including subscription services and rental options. Check local listings for availability on platforms like Netflix, Stan, or Amazon Prime Video.

Is Janet Planet scary?

Janet Planet is not a horror film, so it does not contain traditional scares. Instead, it evokes emotional depth and introspection, making it more of a coming-of-age story than a thriller. Its focus is on the characters and their relationships rather than suspenseful elements.

What films are similar to Janet Planet?

Films similar to Janet Planet include 'The Florida Project', 'Lady Bird', and 'Moonlight'. These movies also explore themes of childhood, familial relationships, and the complexities of growing up, often with a poignant and reflective tone.

Is there a sequel to Janet Planet?

As of now, there is no officially announced sequel to Janet Planet. The film stands as a self-contained story, but its themes and characters may resonate with audiences in a way that invites speculation about further exploration of Lacy and Janet's lives.