Swimmer explores deep emotions

Director Duane Crichton of Revolver Films has launched a new short film which tells the story of a young swimmer who is struggling to cope with the loss of her best friend and teammate.

Written by Kimberley Gillis and called Swimmer, the film touches upon themes of friendship, societal expectations, loss and grief and explores the metaphysical idea that our true being is separate from our bodies. 

The film was based on the Gillis's personal experiences of growing up in a small town and, from there, the script was developed into an ode to female friendship and loss. Swimmer follows the life of teenager and talented swimmer, Kai, who is feeling the pressures of navigating her life without her best friend, Ash, who recently passed away but who is still very much alive in Kai’s mind. 

Self- destructive and angered by her pain, Kai is up against the pressures of regionals and competing for a swimming scholarship, but is encouraged by Ash to keep training and not let grief overcome her. It is only in the end scene, when Kai wins her race and looks to celebrate with Ash, that she has the stark realisation that her best friend has left her subconscious, for good.

Crichton, DoP John Kerr and editor Ross Birchall worked closely to depict Ash inside Kai’s mind, while also striking a visual balance of drama and naturalism with Swimmer inspired by the tone and execution of French historical romantic drama, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, as well as the visual duality of Darren Aronofsky’s Black Swan.

“A teenage girl sinks under the weight of the loss of her best friend, even though that friend remains in her life in a very real way," said Crichton. "This is the story of Swimmer, a rare combination of verité and magical, centring around a visual approach to the core relationship of the story that is wholly unique. It’s a film that drops the viewer in and lets them piece it all together at their own pace."

The film premiered at the Toronto Short Film Festival on the December 15 and will be screened at the New York Shorts festival in early 2023.