Olga

... This Ukrainian drama has an engrossing story.

A skillful but flawed portrait of amateur sports on the global stage that doesn’t quite stick the landing.

Even before Vladimir Putin’s unprovoked invasion, "Olga" was an incredibly strong film, but now, the Kino Lorber release should be considered essential viewing for art-house audiences.

Could be appropriately paired with Lauren Hadaway’s “The Novice” or Charlène Favier’s “Slalom”&#59; all three are tough indie films about the dark side of women’s sports, athletes pushing their bodies in an attempt to exercise, or exorcise, something bigger.

It matters little now whether Grappe meant to examine the consequences of Western complacency toward democracy’s enemies. Here we are, and here is this quietly poignant film, a heartbreaking reminder of the cost in individual lives and dreams.

Shot with a documentary-style naturalism and propulsive restlessness that mirrors Olga’s ferocious drive, this is a terrific, timely feature debut.

A really impressive and taut character drama about the single-minded determination required for athletic success, and how sports is political, anyway you slice it.

… bold and thoughtful …

Olga, the first feature film by Elie Grappe, presents a realistic picture of high-level gymnastics training, aided by excellent, unfussy cinematography by Lucie Baudinaud and expert editing by Suzana Pedro.

Despite the fact that the tape was filmed before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, now it becomes more relevant. The naturalistic way events are recorded is compelling, and so is the acting. [Full review in Spanish]