Searchlight’s SUNCOAST Review
SUNCOAST is a heartbreaking symphony of grief and catharsis.
While the premise is very straightforward and the story at times is a bit predictable (towards the front end), nothing will prepare you for what is inevitable. The focal point of the film is fixated on the progressing cancer of the protagonist's brother, with emotions meticulously concealed until they erupt in an overwhelming burst in the second half.
It took me around an hour to finally get into the movie. At times, it was hard to grasp the feelings of both the mother and daughter simply because of the writing. They were on complete opposite sides of the spectrum when it came to their son/brother dying, it begins to feel repetitive when no resolution comes to fruition. That is until roughly 25 minutes left in the film, where everything goes away, and the world stops in place. This pivotal moment allows the audience to vicariously experience the profound emotions without reservation, leaving no survivors.
The film warrants the most acclaim for its compelling narrative. There is not enough to say about how fantastic Nico Parker is in this film. Parker's performance, while the initial stages of the role may not offer much, masterfully captures the silence and perpetual anxiety, intensifying the emotional gravity of the situation. Despite minor grievances with certain aspects of some of the teenage characters and the simplicity of the story's progression, the narrative holds immense importance for those grappling with issues of parental control, everyday social anxiety, or individuals with family members facing severe illnesses. The supporting cast does their thing as well, Woody Harrelson breathes life into his character, portraying a relatable and admirable father figure, albeit with a nuanced religious aspect that I particularly did not care for. Laura Linney serves as a struggling parent who has had the burden and weight of a dozen elephants, and she carries that weight very well throughout the film.
Overall, the film’s central themes resonate with me emotionally. It might go under the radar this year with an early release on streaming service Hulu on February 9th. Without question, I recommend this film to anyone who likes the common drama format following the close-knit relationships within the family. The teenage aspect gives it a soft push towards cluelessness and adventure while keeping the innocence of life in high school as an outcast.
