Head Above Water

About This Movie

Head Above Water offers a raw glimpse into the pressures of adolescence mixed with familial responsibility. It follows Elisa, a fiery teenager navigating the complexities of her summer as she’s thrust into unexpected caretaking duties for her disabled sister. The Vercors' steep slopes serve as a stunning backdrop, enhancing the film's gripping atmosphere. The pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to feel the weight of Elisa's struggles, both internally and externally. The performances are quite striking—especially Elisa's portrayal of a girl on the brink, torn between youthful desires and crushing obligations. It's a slice-of-life drama that captures the turbulence of growing up in a world that isn’t always forgiving.

Intimate portrayal of family dynamicsStrong sense of place with the VercorsCharacter-driven narrative