‘Julie se tait’ Explores Silence and Trauma in Competitive Tennis
Leonardo Van Dijl’s debut film examines the psychological toll of abuse and societal pressures on a young tennis player grappling with her coach’s suspension.
- The film follows Julie, a 15-year-old tennis prodigy, whose coach is suspended after a fellow player’s tragic suicide, raising questions about abuse and power dynamics in sports.
- Julie’s silence becomes the focal point of the narrative, highlighting the emotional complexities of trauma and the societal expectation for victims to speak out.
- Critics have praised the film’s visual style, marked by meticulously composed shots and a restrained, almost meditative pacing, though some found it emotionally flat.
- The film delves into the broader theme of safeguarding in sports, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to protect young athletes from abuse.
- Supported by notable collaborators like Naomi Osaka and Patrick Mouratoglou, the project also features a haunting score by Pulitzer-winning composer Caroline Shaw.
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