Submerge is a 2013 Australian independent film directed and written by Sophie O'Connor. The film follows Jordan (Lily Hall), a young woman who has a passion for swimming but feels directionless in her life. Her father was a competitive swimmer, but after his death, Jordan became lost and disconnected from her dreams. When she meets her new swim coach Angie (Christina Hallett), Jordan develops a crush on her and becomes increasingly infatuated with her.
As Jordan trains for an upcoming swimming competition, she starts to unravel her feelings and emotions towards Angie. At the same time, Jordan's best friend Lucas (Kevin Dee) tries to help her navigate her complicated feelings while also pursuing his own romantic aspirations.
The film features a strong focus on the themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. Jordan's sexual awakening is at the center of the narrative, but the film also addresses other struggles that young adults face, such as finding their place in the world and grappling with grief and loss.
The acting in the film is exceptional, with Lily Hall delivering a standout performance as Jordan. Her portrayal of a young woman looking for direction is nuanced and authentic, and she conveys Jordan's inner turmoil with subtlety and grace. Christina Hallett also delivers an excellent performance as Angie, the enigmatic and charismatic coach who captures Jordan's attention.
One of the most impressive aspects of the film is its cinematography. The pool scenes are beautifully shot and capture the grace and power of swimming. The film also makes great use of the Australian landscape and showcases the natural beauty of the country.
The soundtrack is a highlight as well, with a mix of original songs and popular pop music. The songs are well-chosen and add to the emotional depth of the scenes.
Overall, Submerge is a captivating and thought-provoking film that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with their identity or their place in the world. The film's honest portrayal of complex emotions and relationships is refreshing, and its focus on swimming adds a unique and visually stunning element to the story. It is a must-watch for fans of independent cinema and anyone looking for a moving and honest story about the human experience.
Submerge is a 2014 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.
