The Gymnast

One thing that's almost invariably true about romance movies is that they are, to one degree or another (or several), ham-handed and contrived. Few are the titles that aren't, and fewer still when we're talking about LGBTQ+ pictures. Lesbian romance films in particular are too often reliant on added drama that makes the relationship unlikely at the start, and unlikely to continue at the end. 'The gymnast' is definitely not free of these qualities; anyone sitting to watch already knows pretty well what they're getting into, and anyone who can't get on board with the style won't have their mind changed here. Ultimately it's fairly enjoyable - only, there aren't necessarily any major surprises on hand.

Well, at least one surprise. What's most immediately noteworthy and indeed commendable about 'The gymnast' is that the chief cast are themselves experienced with varieties of dance, gymnastics, and choreography. Given the backgrounds of Dreya Weber, Addie Yungmee, and Mam Smith, the actors get to genuinely perform their own stunts and routines. The result is that while this is marketed as a lesbian romance flick, there's also real, unmistakable artistry behind the production, and touches of realism in the depictions of these skills. I'm reminded, in a small way, of Patrick Swayze's 2003 film 'One last dance,' which included specific plot but also concretely centered dance, and the performers' physical grace and prowess. And on that note, too, the filming locations are absolutely choice, especially the dancers' rehearsal space. Filmmaker Ned Farr also demonstrates an unexpectedly sharp eye for shot composition, furthering the quiet brilliance underlying the narrative.

In that regard, if nothing else, 'The gymnast' kind of impresses as something a little out of the ordinary. I wish I could say the same about the writing, but that's a more thorny area as the picture mostly falls into the same trap as a preponderance of its brethren. It's a long, slow build to any meaningful flicker of the anticipated romance, and once we do get it, the film still focuses more on the ancillary drama rather than the relationship itself. I suppose that gradual progression is more natural and believable than just throwing the two women together at the first opportunity, and it's at least gratifying that the story ends on a distinctly positive note - also a rarity in this niche genre. And the very last scene, playing out intermittently over the end credits, almost feels like an acknowledgement by the screenwriter of the problems common to LGBTQ+ pictures: We get a wholly superfluous additional story beat of pure melodrama, paired with a cheeky, winking response to it. The penmanship here isn't sloppy, or accidental, and it knows what it is. But, still, would that this mindfulness were applied to crafting a story that more emphatically broke from the mold of its cousins: put aside the dance, and 'The gymnast' would struggle to stand out.

Nevertheless, if imperfect, this is duly entertaining, and serves its purpose. The cast are fine, the technical craft is solid - and apart from the filming locations and set design, the costume design is also pretty great. And, once more, the scenes of dance and gymnastics that we get are honestly a joy. It's unfortunate that the feature isn't similarly grabbing in other ways, but at least it's done well enough that viewers looking for a lesbian romance will feel right at home. You don't need to go out of your way to see it, I don't think, but if you happen to come across 'The gymnast,' there are a lot worse ways you could spend 100 minutes.

I'm an ordinary people who enjoys watching movies almost all the time. I get this movie & start watching it. I enjoy the struggle of the 2 main gymnast character, especially after understanding that Jane was actually at the top of her Gymnast career that has to end abruptly after an accident at a competition & live her life as a housewife doing house to house massage service, yet still yearning to do what she loves. I didn't really enjoy the movie to tell you the truth, Dreya expression to me is flat throughout the movie and I didn't really get what's Addie's character trying to do. Not a movie for everyone 6 out of 10.

...this one. What came to my mind immediately was Loving Annabelle, as it has this same kind of mature mood and distanced dealing with the subject. We simply observe as the story unfolds, without taking sides, or having to confront any "moral" issues (or of course we are, but are not spoon-fed them). Sure, there were some difficult facts to face, and choices to make, but it just flowed. Basically it was just like any other love story, in any other life, with any other sexes.

I personally found the girls having a good chemistry, and had fun with them on their night outs. The only thing i could really pinpoint as a problem would be it just felt kind of...retained. Held back. It's not about the sex scenes (or those missing), but given that i felt the film at its liveliest during the moments they were together having a good time, it kind of contrasted with the rest. Lowkey is good, but it just never quite sizzled like Loving Annabelle, nor touched me quite as much.

This said, i heartily recommend it, it's by no means a waste of ones precious time, on the contrary...

7/10

"The Gymnast" unfolds in short shots and short scenes, revealing its characters and message over time. The spare editing is accompanied by a beautiful, simple score. This intimate approach is wonderful for feeling like you're on a path of discovery as much as the characters are.

The spare approach is also its drawback; there are a few scenes that are confusing because they don't have enough context. There are some decisions made by the characters that seemed rather flip until I watched the interviews that were in the bonus materials. I'm glad I did, because the actors' descriptions of their motivations gave me a much more well- rounded understanding of the film overall.

Aside from the story itself, it was wonderful to see women so comfortable and strong in their own bodies. The shooting was very tastefully done; very matter-of-fact. One has the feeling of seeing a love story and a life story unfold, not a voyeuristic sleaze film. The physicality of the athletes -- their realness -- is a great contrast to the sometimes ethereal nature of the plot.

Not a film I'll need to see again anytime soon, since the storyline is simple but its delivery is powerful enough to stay with me for a long time.

Somehow, somewhere, someplace.. you GOTTA see this film. Breath taking aerials, and incredible outstanding performances from highly gifted actors.You think Cirque du Soleil blows your mind,wait till you see what these 2 women do - most importantly, the emotional journey and struggles Jane(Dreya Weber) faces are universal in theme to many women. A superbly directed film which deals with the complexities of relationships,and holding on, until you're ready to let go. This masterpiece will touch women and men alike. Ned Far (director/writer) and ridiculously talented Dreya Weber (star/producer) just had the guts to tell it, honestly and sincerely. This film will hit big - see it HOWEVER you can - or you won't be "in the loop" when it becomes one of the most talked about films.