The Sharks

Fourteen-year-old Rosina (Romina Bentancur) lives in a small fishing village in Uruguay. The underlying conflicts of a patriarchal community constantly shimmer through the sun-drenched daily lives of the young people. Then a rumor begins to spread about sharks being spotted off the coast. Anxiety grows in the coastal town. Meanwhile, Rosina sets out on her own hunt: during her summer job, she develops a shy affection for the slightly older Joselo (Federico Morosini). Amid family conflicts, the uncertainties of growing up, and the ever-present unease about the possible sharks, Rosina tries to find her place in a turbulent environment. Uruguayan director Lucía Garibaldi’s coming-of-age drama approaches the awakening desires and rebellious feelings of its protagonist with great subtlety and a quiet, relaxed tone. The sharks serve as a subtle symbol of danger, awakening, and the power of the unknown. With “The Sharks,” Garibaldi has delivered a credible portrait of adolescence that won awards at the Sundance Film Festival and in San Sebastián and “captivates through a highly atmospheric, sensual visual language and the natural presence of its lead actress.” (Lexikon des Internationalen Films)