This is an odd little film because it deals with abortion--yet is a film folks on either side of the argument could enjoy. It's also an interesting film because it makes you feel for athletes and their insane pursuit of excellence.
The film begins with Isabel (Denise Tan) in a clinic. She's told she must wait five days before they'll perform the abortion but she begs them to do it now. The law, however, requires this waiting period and you soon see why she wants it done so quickly. Isabel is an world-class gymnast--and the European championships are soon approaching. Because she's pregnant, her routines are suffering and she is determined to get it do AND get back to practice immediately. She is insanely driven and you wonder just how long she can push herself like this before she cracks.
Miss Tan did a real nice job in the film. Obviously she's a heck of an athlete as you get to see her doing a variety of gymnastic routines--but she also is able to cry on queue and did a very nice job. As for the film itself, I liked it because it opens up so many questions and makes a strong emotional impact. Well done all around and also very, very sad in so many ways.
By the way, this is a personal gripe of mine but I have seen too many films with closeups of folks vomiting recently. Call me crazy, but I don't like to see this! So, when the filmmakers show Isabel with morning sickness, they handle it wonderfully--without the obligatory closeups of her spitting up her dinner! Thank you!
The film begins with Isabel (Denise Tan) in a clinic. She's told she must wait five days before they'll perform the abortion but she begs them to do it now. The law, however, requires this waiting period and you soon see why she wants it done so quickly. Isabel is an world-class gymnast--and the European championships are soon approaching. Because she's pregnant, her routines are suffering and she is determined to get it do AND get back to practice immediately. She is insanely driven and you wonder just how long she can push herself like this before she cracks.
Miss Tan did a real nice job in the film. Obviously she's a heck of an athlete as you get to see her doing a variety of gymnastic routines--but she also is able to cry on queue and did a very nice job. As for the film itself, I liked it because it opens up so many questions and makes a strong emotional impact. Well done all around and also very, very sad in so many ways.
By the way, this is a personal gripe of mine but I have seen too many films with closeups of folks vomiting recently. Call me crazy, but I don't like to see this! So, when the filmmakers show Isabel with morning sickness, they handle it wonderfully--without the obligatory closeups of her spitting up her dinner! Thank you!