Dec. 17, 2021|United States|94 Min.|R
Genre: Drama;Thriller
Description: One of the standout indie films of 2021, *The Novice*, is written and directed by Lauren Hadaway and stars Isabelle Fuhrman. This compelling drama offers an intimate exploration of female student-athletes in the world of rowing, delving into underlying themes and relationships. The film premiered at the Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago on December 26th. It earned the Best U.S. Narrative award at the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival, delivering an intense character study of Alex Dall, portrayed by Isabelle Fuhrman, who also won Best Actress for her performance. Alex is a college freshman joining her school’s rowing team as a novice, showcasing her relentless drive to excel, which borders on obsession. Her determination clashes with her teammates, creating tension and suspense that draws the audience into her world.
Lauren Hadaway, in her directorial debut, skillfully balances the micro-level struggles of making the team with the broader journey of personal growth during a challenging phase of life. Isabelle Fuhrman, known for her role as Clove in *The Hunger Games* and her appearance in *Escape Room: Tournament of Champions* (2021), delivers a powerful performance. Director Lauren Hadaway has also made significant contributions to the sound department in major films like *Pacific Rim*, *Whiplash*, *Selma*, *The Hateful Eight*, and *Justice League*.
*The Novice* is a gripping tale of ambition, resilience, and self-discovery, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.
Cast director: Lauren Hadaway
Cast actor: Isabelle Fuhrman, Amy Forsyth, Dilone, Jonathan Cherry, Kate Drummond, Charlotte Ubben, Sage Irvine, Chantelle Bishop, Jeni Ross, Nikki Duval
Original name: The Novice