Undertow
Image: Cate McGregor speaks at the 2016 Gender Trailblazers event for Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festival. (PHOTO: Ann-Marie Calilhanna; Star Observer)
Miranda Nation’s first venture into film writing and directing is a heart-wrenching tale of postpartum depression fused with the trauma of sexual assault.
Undertow revolves around photojournalist Clair (Laura Gordon) and pregnant teen Angie (Olivia De Jonge). When these two women initially cross paths it is unbeknownst to them that their lives have been inextricably linked through motherhood.
While Clair is still coming to terms with the loss of her unborn child and the lingering effect of postpartum depression when she first lays eyes on Angie. From that moment forward Clair is drawn to the teenager, who we all later learn is pregnant following a traumatic sexual assault at the hands of a group of football players.
Undertow is obviously inspired by the multitude of football sex scandals over the past five to ten years. Although late to the party the film is still incredibly poignant as it reflects on the so-called “boys club” culture that seems to envelop professional sport.
A special psychological thriller that is difficult at times but worth the uncomfortable journey.
★★★ ½
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