Direction: Molly Manning Walker
Country: UK / Greece
In this conventional coming-of-age drama film, written and directed by debutant English filmmaker Molly Manning Walker, the narrative subtly questions consent and explores the emptiness of youths rushing to embrace adulthood. The film delves into sexual and emotional disillusion, unreliable friendships, and ultimately hope. It starts as a lascivious, energetic romp with quick editing but evolves into a hard-nosed, somewhat schematized summer adventure before the too easy ending.
The plot revolves around three British friends - Tara (Mia McKenna-Bruce), Em (Enva Lewis), and Skye (Lara Peake) - who embarks on a trip to a party resort in Malia, located on the Greek island of Crete, with the intention of having fun. Tara, in particular, feels the societal pressure of still being a virgin, and the film explores how the 'dream' surrounding a first sexual experience often falls short of expectations.
While the initial segment may not be particularly surprising, the film gains more depth as the real problem emerges, exposing those gray areas associated with the topic with realistic perception. What you thought would happen, does... with no less traumatizing nuance that, for moments, takes the form of a sun-and-sea-kissed nightmare. Despite moments where the plot feels like a rough draft, the tension simmering beneath the surface is undeniable. The way the 16-year-old protagonist is tempted and entrapped is portrayed with authenticity, and McKenna-Bruce capably conveys the emotional tumult associated with such a transformative experience.
