I was a Junior in High School when the Terri Schiavo case made headlines.
From what I remember, it was brought up in at least one of my classes as a potential debate topic, and it also was something I thought could hurt the film Million Dollar Baby at that year’s Oscars (it didn’t). Being what introduced the world (or at least me) to the term “euthanasia”, the whole impact of the ordeal seems to have been lost to time.
That would not be the case for Laura Chinn, whose directorial debut Suncoast is based off of her own experiences with the event. The coming of age drama (and sometimes comedy) centers on Doris (Nico Parker), a high schooler in 2004-2005. Being a “normal” teenager is not in her cards as she is constantly caring for her older brother Max (Cree Kawa), who is in a vegetable state. Her single mother Kristine (Laura Linney) clearly seems to be showing more attention to her son than her daughter, even after they move him to a local medical facility (called Suncoast), which is also housing Terri Schiavo.
Despite her rather demanding mother (who is suspicious of nearly everyone at the facility), Doris is still kind hearted and wanting to fit in, despite not having many friends. She eventually interacts with kids in class (the only class we actually see her in at her private school), and embarks on certain adventures you would find the likes of in all good coming of age stories. She also strikes up an unlikely friendship with one of the many protestors outside the facility (protesting the Schiavo debacle), Paul, played perfectly by the always effective Woody Harrelson.
The film does supply us with the obvious plot points of a coming of age film: first kisses, doing things you regret, etc. Thankfully, each of these are handled with enough care by Chinn that, at times, you don’t feel like “Oh, I’ve seen this before.”
The story is sure to grind out some tears from the audience and while I did not cry myself, I did feel the eyeballs inflate and get moist. The story is indeed a reason, but the main culprit is Nico Parker. I’ve only seen her in the very forgettable (and most likely regrettable) 2019 remake of Dumbo, as well as the small (but very important) role of Pedro Pascal’s daughter in The Last of Us. She has some scenes in this film that show she can truly bring a lot of vulnerability to her roles, and will continue to have a promising career going forward (acting is in her blood, as she is the daughter of actress Thandie Newton.)
Parents, while there are undoubtedly great coming of age stories that should be seen by young people, I would be hesitant on this one. There are some moments in the film where teens are doing stuff that, while I am sure others have done stuff like it in their youth, should not be encouraged (one scene in particular). The R rating is indeed justified here.
As with all coming of age flicks, there are sure to be scenes that may be considered cliche: discovering a new found happiness, rebellion, regret, and conviction. Even so, Suncoast has a few things up it sleeves I did not expect (especially the relationships that Doris has with her new friends). When the credits roll, the only thing more guaranteed than a lump in the throat will be putting young Nico Parker on your radar for the future.
Overall:
Nothing else to say 