Netflix's Swim to Me is an introspective drama set in Chile and centered on the relationship between Julia, a young girl, and Estela, her beloved nanny. The film is a slow-paced reflection on social class and human connection, specifically between the nanny and a girl who feels unique in the world. However, it comes across as, at best, a mediocre attempt at low-key social awareness.
This isn't to say the themes aren't conveyed; it's just that the plot itself is mediocre, following only the nanny rather than offering us a perspective on the two protagonists. Admittedly, any movie about nannies is ultimately a movie about parental neglect. Yes, even Mary Poppins. But even with good intentions, sometimes sloppy execution can turn a slow-paced masterpiece into a boring movie. But this doesn't mean I hated Swim to Me completely.
Director: Dominga Sotomayor
Writers: Gabriela Larralde, Dominga Sotomayor, Alia Trabucco Zerán
Stars: María Paz Grandjean, Rosa Puga Vittini, Ignacia Baeza
I definitely enjoyed some scenes, especially the shots inside the pool. The film has a slow and deliberate pace, taking its time to set the tone for the powerful moments that culminate in the final minutes. I'm not going to criticize it, though my introduction might seem like it; I'm simply setting the tone for the type of film you're in for. It's definitely not for everyone, and there are outside influences; some scenes even remind me of Aftersun, though this could be a personal bias. Despite all its thematic potential, I think the film struggles to maintain its pace, veering in and out of the shallow and the deep, which makes it difficult to follow.
I quite like the film's title, but it only makes sense very late. The ending is quite abrupt, preventing you from feeling a true emotional connection with the characters and their emotions. Sure, it's scenic, but it has no impact beyond looking aesthetically devastating. The film is narrated entirely from Estela's perspective, who finds herself trapped in a world where she doesn't belong. There are moments of calm where we can see her resilience, but she holds on tight due to the situation she finds herself in. We never truly see her happy (this is the second time today I've seen a female lead who literally can never smile). Maria Pza Grandjean is an excellent actress who carries the film on her own. But of course, I can't help but mention her co-star, Rosa Puga Vittini, who plays young Julia. I always admire child actors, especially if they have to tackle dark themes in any way.
I just learned that the film is an adaptation of an award-winning novel by Alia Trabucco Zerran, and it's also directed by a woman, Dominga Sotomayor, which is why it's powerful in the good moments. According to what the director said, she was trying to use Estela's character to draw a subtle but clear line between those who live for themselves and those who live for others. The film takes place over one summer, and that, in some ways, gives the sense that the fear comes with more urgency. But what I didn't like much is that much of the film feels disjointed. Some parts seem really out of place because the drama contrasts so sharply with the rest of the film. That's what makes it a bit hard to follow.
The last 15-20 minutes of Swim to Me are the most gripping moments of the entire film. This is where everything important happens, although if you haven't been paying attention, you may struggle to connect with the plot. But this doesn't mean you can't have it playing in the background. If you have, make sure you pay attention during the last 20 minutes. It's a subtly observant and gently poignant story that never judges or prompts the characters to act or give complete answers. This may be distracting for some, but it could make it a masterpiece for others. I quite enjoyed the observant quality of the camera, as well as the perspective of the script.
In terms of technicalities, I was captivated by some visual elements. The film is very beautiful, and summer is well captured in the bodies of the nanny and the boy, making the warmth felt. Dadu, the dog, is a main character, and no one can argue with me otherwise. There are a couple of other secondary characters, such as the man who plays Estela's love interest and Julia's parents, but they are almost insignificant in this story. I found myself quite distracted by their scenes, mainly because it's more enjoyable to see Estela and Julia together. I think the romantic angle is very well integrated into the story, and it serves a purpose, even if it doesn't seem like it at first.
Despite all my praise, as you can see, this film isn't perfect by any means. But I can't say it's not worth seeing, because there's a lot to like about it. It's a typical indie film, and distinctly Chilean in its social critique. I always like a touch of culture, and even though there's nothing obvious, it somehow comes across. If you don't mind watching something slow and too fast to close the loop (although 10 more minutes might have made a difference), then give Limpia (original title) a chance. I can see that the ending was meant to be poetic, but I wish there had been something more powerful beforehand.
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