By: Addison Wylie

Last Summer, audiences were treated to the Canadian coming-of-age sports drama Backspot. Despite functioning at a glossy sitcom level, the indie was still a sufficient way to address serious topics for teens such as anxieties, competition, and family conflicts. Curl Power covers similar topics only, this time, their packaged as a documentary. Curl Power is a superior movie and an inspiration for teens (notably high schoolers) enduring the same issues expressed in Josephine Anderson doc, but it also serves as a reminder that the “real thing” is usually more special. The doc is also a great-looking film with energetic edits and a fantastic soundtrack.

However, Anderson exposes some unripened filmmaking qualities that liken to reality television. A scene, for instance, will feature two athletes from the 4KGirl$, the curling team that serves as the doc’s primary focus. These teens hang out, almost as if they’re waiting on a cue or for each other to start the conversation. This initial staginess is odd, but Anderson quickly snuffs out our suspicion with a secret weapon. She realizes that if she leaves a camera rolling on her young subjects, and they already have a personal relationship, someone is going to naturally break the silence. What also speaks to how reassuring and comforting Anderson is as a filmmaker is how the discussions on screen are instantly vulnerable with truth. Her camera even acts as a confessional for the players when they’re alone, enabling the young subjects to work through their own thoughts in a natural, non-exploitative fashion.

Movie goers will see some patchwork at play when Curl Power travels down some unexpected paths as the doc winds down. Anderson’s efforts to send viewers home on a wave of “glass half-full” positivity are appreciated and the ending still feels genuine towards its subjects; even if we’re seeing that extra effort from the director.

Curling is an activity that these friends have fun doing and are dedicated to, but the sport stands as a structure. In the same spirit as classic teen movies from John Hughes, Curl Power is about how these young women stay true to themselves as they interpret the next stage of their lives. Friendships and passions are tested with inevitable change; such as older teammates graduating and pursuing post-secondary studies, or their team suffering another frustrating game loss. The documentary, in fact, would make a suitable double feature with The Last Showgirl since both films tread similar ground and match each other’s competency.

**********

Do You Tweet? Follow These Tweeple:

Addison Wylie: @AddisonWylie