Streamline

Streamline (2021) is a searing and intense drama that captures a gripping narrative of ambition, discipline, and redemption set in the world of youth swimming. Ranked as one of the year's must-watch, the film is defined by its robust storytelling, compelling performances, and emotive undertones, expertly directed by Tyson Wade Johnston and headlined by the talented ensemble cast featuring Jason Isaacs, Jake Ryan, and Levi Miller.

The story revolves around Benjamin Lane (Levi Miller), a gifted 15-year-old swimmer on the cusp of qualifying for the Olympics, who struggles with the intense pressures of his potential future. Levi Miller, known for his roles in Pan and A Wrinkle in Time, brings raw emotion and subtlety to the character, infusing the narrative with a sense of realism and vulnerability. He is supported by the experienced Jason Isaacs, best known for his roles in the Harry Potter series and The OA, playing his aggressive and demanding coach, Frank Torma. Isaacs delivers a fiery and layered performance, exuding a relentless drive for his young athlete's success that blurs the line between guidance and manipulation.

Adding to the layers of complexity in Benjamin's world is his father, Wayne (Jake Ryan), a former boxer turned local menace, whose battle with his violent tendencies and criminal past makes for an intense subplot in the movie. Jake Ryan, recognized for his work on Wolf Creek, harmoniously blends toughness and humanity into his character, showcasing the profound struggles of a man desperately trying to alter his life's course.

The synergy between the talented cast in Streamline elevates the narrative, drawing audiences into the lives and difficulties of these intricate, multi-dimensional characters. Their performances are set against the backdrop of a highly competitive environment, where immense pressure, intense routines, physical pain, and personal sacrifices are the norms for these young athletes dreaming of Olympic gold - a scenario that exposes both the glamorous and gritty sides of the sporting world.

Streamline, however, is much more than a movie solely about sports and ambition. It's a deep-dive into the psychology of its characters and the impact of their circumstances – the conflict between a young swimmer and his stern coach, the past mistakes of a father, and a young athlete coming of age amid high expectations - all presented in a realistic, visceral way. The film conducts a psychological exploration, presenting an emotional tapestry of struggle, determination, regret, realization, and forgiveness, making it a compelling drama about the human spirit and pursuit of dreams.

The keenly observed direction of Tyson Wade Johnston is complimented by the film's technical elements, most notably its claustrophobic underwater shots, high-energy training sequences, and visceral fight scenes. Cinematographer Shing-Fung Cheung captures the physical culture of swimming with a unique perspective, showing the speed, power, and grace of the sport and its athletes, while also capturing the dramatic intensity of the characters' individual journeys.

The movie's production design also adds to the film’s vivid realism. Everything from the locker rooms to the public swimming pools, to the characters' homes, is meticulously detailed, increasing the sense of authenticity and immersion in Streamline.

Streamline’s soundtrack conduces the poignant moments and helps ratchet up the tension in the competition scenarios. The score by Michael Yezerski adeptly complements the story's emotional crescendos and Fergus Rotherham's sound design, effectively enhancing the atmosphere and impact of every scene.

Streamline is notable not only for its exploration of the sporting world but also for its in-depth examination of human resilience, emotional growth, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of overpowering challenges. It's a captivating drama that grips the audience with its potent storytelling, vivid performances, and an emotionally charged plot. This balanced blend of intense sports drama and emotional realism makes Streamline a compelling movie experience well worth embracing.