July Movie Pick: 'Young Woman and the Sea' - The Inspiring Journey of Trudy Ederle

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Lately, Disney has been under attack because of their political views, park management, etc., but the main problem was really picking quantity over quality. The movies and shows that came out in the past two years ruined the reputation of the brand, making their theatrical releases unwatchable and their Disney+ productions the last nail in the coffin.

It is nice to see the tables turning back to normal and Disney once again standing for quality content across the board. With the great reviews from 'Deadpool & Wolverine' that are coming out (I am seeing this tonight, review tomorrow), the success of 'Inside Out 2', and the most Emmy-nominated show for the 76th Emmy Awards 'Shōgun' (go ahead and check it out right now, incredible series, review soon), Disney is once again dominating the industry.

Slight spoilers ahead: 'Young Woman and the Sea' is another masterfully done drama bringing back a forgotten hero from the depths of human history. The story of Gertrude Ederle, also known as Trudy, an American swimmer, teacher, record breaker, and incredible woman and human being, surfaces once again to rebirth the symbol she became back in 1926 when she became the first woman ever to swim across the English Channel. During this swim, she shattered every male record and became a legend. The film tells the true story of Trudy, played masterfully by Daisy Ridley, who was one of the most hurt actresses because of the way Disney handled one of their most famous properties, 'Star Wars'. In this story, based on the book with the same title by Glenn Stout, Ridley captures the spirit of Trudy and brings her strength and likability to us. The whole movie I was rooting for her, I laughed with her, and many times I was scared for her. There is a drowning scene that was so realistic that, even though I knew the end of the movie, I found myself worried for her. Disney played this film in theaters long enough for it to be an award contender, and I believe that one of their greatest chances is an Oscar for an actress in a leading role. With that said, I believe that there are three other actresses who could easily be nominated for supporting roles. Jeanette Hain, who plays Trudy’s mother, delivers an incredible performance. Sian Clifford, who you may know as the sister from 'Fleabag' (a must-watch series that I will also review soon), gives her all as Trudy’s coach. Tilda Cobham-Hervey, playing Meg in the movie, could easily be the third performance nominated in the category for best supporting actress, challenging the chances of Gaga's Harley Quinn Oscar win. The boys in the movie, Stephen Graham and Kim Bodnia, have smaller roles, but they also brought their A-game. Everyone across the board delivers an exceptional job here. I am sorry to say that, now looking at the cast, I couldn't recognize the Bulgarian actor Bashar Rahal playing one of the reporters, but I am certainly happy for him and the opportunity he had with this movie. I will definitely watch it one more time to see him.

This movie showcases the powerful human spirit, our bond, how beautiful and strong we are when we come together, and the change that this can bring to the world. Joachim Rønning delivers his best movie to date, giving this symbol life once again. The director shows us some of the struggles women had to endure, struggles that could be easily forgotten if it were not for people like Trudy and this team reminding us how far we have come and how much more we have to swim.

Iliya Badev

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