Swimming (USA; 98min.) directed by: Robert J. Siegel starring: Lauren Ambrose; Joelle Carter; Jennifer Dundas; Jamie Harrold

Diane says: "SWIMMING brought back childhood memories of a week at Myrtle Beach on a family vacation--in the rain. My strongest memory is of being hit in the head by a beach ball thrown by a drunken man. But back to the movie! "I agree that there was a lot of strong acting: Lauren Ambrose as Frankie; her close friend; the new girl; the tie-dye merchant.... I would have liked more shaping up in the story: cut the imaginary friend episodes, give some more substance to the impact of the affair going on close to home. Frankie is a great character, sex scene concerning the main character? Janet will be nominating the smallest nephew for Supporting." 3 cats

Ellen C. says: "I first saw this film two years ago at the Nantucket Film Festival. It stars the wonderful Lauren Ambrose, who has now become a bit of a star due to her role in 'Six Feet Under' on HBO. She is a fabulous young actress and Laura is right, the film has the independent Chlotrudis spirit."

Laura says: "Star Ambrose is a wide-eyed observer, who in trying to establish independence, allows outside influence to cloud her judgement before regaining her footing. Ambrose makes us care about Frankie because of the way quiet Frankie cares about everyone else. Still Ambrose is upstaged a bit by Dundas, who has the flashier role of Nicola, the hard-bodied, dark rooted blonde with a penchant for shocking her friends and making bad choices. Joelle Carter gives the subtlest performance as the hard-to-read, manipulative Josse. Carter disappears into the girl others want to see, gliding through life on the entitlement of her looks. Also chameleon like is Jamie Harrold as the drifter who courts Frankie, alternately sexy, nerdy, kind or clueless depending on Frankie's current perception." 3 1/2 cats For Laura's complete review: "http://www.reelingreviews.com/swimming.htm"

Michael says: "SWIMMING is definitely the kind of film Chlotrudis should get behind. This elegantly written, superbly acted film was suffused with a reality and truth that was reminiscent of OUR SONG. Set in Myrtle Beach, with a powerful use of location, SWIMMING is a coming-of-age story for a young woman who has lived there all her life. It's also a look at a longtime friendship betweeen two girls, and the ups and downs that come with it. "The acting is wonderful, with Lauren Ambrose (PSYCHO BEACH PARTY) leading the cast with a sublimely underspoken and real performance. Supporting actresses Joelle Carter and Jennifer Dundas Love were right on target as well. There'll be some nominations there, I think. And when thinking back on noms, don't forget this wonderful original screenplay. The story unfolds so naturally and without melodrama, things aren't shouted out at the viewer." 4 cats

Robin says: "Oftentimes, teen coming-of-age movies rely on sex, nudity, drugs and foul language to entertain (not necessarily educate) their target audience. SWIMMING, fortunately is different in its intelligent approach to the subject. Sure, there is sex, drugs (a little pot smoking) and alcohol in the film but all within the realm of context. There is not prurient titillation, but there is sharp dialog and smart pacing that follows Frankie through her formative days. Josee openly shows her affection for Frankie and revels in the aggravation she is causing Nicola. And, while we're not talking Oscar-winning acting, the young cast is likable and attractive." 3 1/2 cats For Robin's complete review: "http://www.reelingreviews.com/swimming.htm"