Suspendu is a captivating coming-of-age drama that's more Darren Aronofsky than John Hughes, with hints of Black Swan as our teen protagonist faces his biggest fears. We can almost feel his pain every time he hits the hard floor. Told with minimal dialogue and gorgeously shot in cinema verité style, Suspendu brings us into a world not unlike our own - where hopes and dreams can be dashed in an instant, and small obstacles feel like life-changing failures. In a film like this the filmmakers can either look for actors who can dance or dancers who can act. This one was a no-brainer. Not only can these young people dance (and act), but they are actual students in leading conservatories who've performed to great accolades. Making the transition to the big screen was a natural for them, especially as they really are their characters. Max Ricat, an accomplished dancer and actor, puts his talents on display here to full effect, with a stunning performance that carries the film from opening to closing frame. He makes Suspendu both a heartwrenching and a joyful experience - no small task.
