The Edge

Wow, where to begin? The Edge is an amazing Aussie film that takes on big issues to create a poignant and memorable viewing experience, shot through with a dash of humour. I'll be thinking about this film for a long time.

This is one of those movies where you care deeply about the leading characters. Yes, The Edge is about sport--and it offers insight into athletics, powerlifting, and swimming--but it's even more about the people involved. The leads give powerful performances as three very different women. There's the fiercely-driven and determined Annie (played by Jane Larkin), who pushes herself to the limit to succeed in sprinting, even as her love life turns into a disaster zone. There's Yui (played by Mei Ichinose), a sweet paralympic swimmer committed to honesty and defending her boyfriend. And then there's Sylvia (played by Lily Riley), a First Nations Australian powerlifter who is bold, hilarious, and unapologetically herself. These three and the friendship they develop will capture you heart, whether you love sports or not!

This movie contains an enormous number of ideas. Too many to adequately explore in the available time. Many unnecessary scenes (and undeveloped characters). In many ways it feels like Ms Larkin has unresolved issues from her past that she has funnelled into "The Edge". Some very clunky film techniques used but the weakest aspect was definitely the script.

Loved this film and the way it frames about three athletes and the challenges they face in their sporting journeys while also showing different aspects of their lives outside of their sporting pursuits. Really liked the character development and how relatable to three main characters were. Also navigates complex issues that are prevalent in the Australian sporting industry. Also definitely need to talk about how good it is to have Australian produced content on Netflix! Really want to see more of this. Would recommend to anyone who wants to switch-off and watch a good Australian Drama. 10/10!!