The Novice
dir. Lauren Hadaway · 2021
The pursuit of excellence can lead to self-destruction and isolation, revealing the dark side of ambition.
Alex, a college freshman, joins her university's rowing team, driven by an insatiable desire to excel. As she pushes her body and mind to the brink, the film immerses viewers in her obsessive journey, revealing the cost of ambition and the isolation it breeds. Watching it feels like being strapped into a racing shell, where every stroke is a battle against both the water and oneself.
Alex, a college freshman, joins her university's rowing team and undertakes an obsessive physical and psychological journey to make it to the top varsity boat. No matter the cost. Intent on outperforming her teammates, Alex pushes herself to her limits-and beyond, alienating everyone around her in the name of success.
