Where to Watch: Young Woman and the Sea (2024) – Movie Review
The cinematic landscape in 2024 has brought forth Young Woman and the Sea, a gripping biographical drama starring Daisy Ridley as Gertrude “Trudy” Ederle, the first woman to swim across the English Channel in 1926. Directed by Joachim Rønning, this film not only celebrates Ederle’s groundbreaking achievement but also delves into the societal challenges she faced as a female athlete in the early 20th century.
A Tale of Triumph and Tenacity
Young Woman and the Sea captures the essence of perseverance, showcasing Ederle’s journey from being a determined young swimmer to a global icon. Ridley’s portrayal of Trudy Ederle is both poignant and powerful, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of a woman who defied the odds. The film effectively balances the tension of the swim itself with the emotional depth of Ederle’s personal battles, including the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated sport.
The story begins in 1920s New York, where Ederle, a young woman with an unyielding passion for swimming, faces the skepticism and outright hostility of the male-dominated sports world. Her training is arduous, and the film doesn’t shy away from depicting the physical and mental toll it takes on her. Rønning’s direction ensures that the audience feels every stroke, every breath, and every moment of doubt as Ederle pushes herself to achieve the impossible.
Comparisons with Nyad
Young Woman and the Sea comes on the heels of another endurance swimming drama, Nyad (2023), which starred Annette Bening as Diana Nyad, who swam from Cuba to Florida in 2013. While both films explore the theme of endurance swimming, the differences in their historical contexts and the challenges faced by their protagonists are stark. Ederle’s story, set nearly a century earlier, highlights the additional hurdles of gender discrimination and the lack of support for female athletes during her time.
Both films attempt to inject tension into what could otherwise be a monotonous depiction of long-distance swimming. In Young Woman and the Sea, the dangers of the swim—such as jellyfish stings and the chilling waters of the English Channel—are portrayed with an intensity that keeps viewers on edge. The film also explores Ederle’s childhood trauma, which adds an emotional layer to her determination to succeed.
The Film’s Strengths
One of the most compelling aspects of Young Woman and the Sea is its portrayal of the societal obstacles Ederle faced. The film emphasizes how the men who controlled the sport were often dismissive or outright hostile toward female athletes. Despite these challenges, Ederle’s wit and resilience shine through, and Ridley’s performance effectively captures this defiant spirit. The film’s production design, which vividly recreates 1920s New York and the vastness of the English Channel, further immerses the audience in Ederle’s world.
Cinematographer Oscar Faura deserves special mention for his work in capturing the film’s various environments. From the cramped, working-class neighborhoods of New York to the expansive, treacherous waters of the Channel, Faura’s visuals enhance the narrative and bring Ederle’s journey to life in a visceral way.
Where to Watch Young Woman and the Sea Online
For those eager to watch Young Woman and the Sea online, several streaming options are available. In the United States, the film is expected to be available on major platforms like Disney+ and Hulu, given Disney’s involvement in the production. These platforms will likely offer the movie as part of their subscription services, making it easily accessible to a broad audience.
For those who prefer to rent or purchase the film, services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes, and Google Play Movies will provide options to buy or rent the film in high definition. These services are ideal for viewers who want to enjoy the movie at their convenience without a subscription.
As always, it’s advisable to check the availability on your preferred streaming service, as release dates and platforms can vary. Whether you’re looking to stream Young Woman and the Sea as part of your monthly subscription or rent it for a movie night, the options are plentiful.
Final Thoughts
Young Woman and the Sea is more than just a sports biopic; it’s a testament to the resilience and determination of a woman who refused to be defined by the limitations of her time. Daisy Ridley’s performance as Trudy Ederle is both inspiring and captivating, making the film a must-watch for anyone interested in stories of triumph over adversity.
While the film may not break new ground in terms of its narrative structure, it succeeds in keeping the audience engaged through its strong performances, historical accuracy, and thrilling depiction of Ederle’s swim across the English Channel. Whether you’re a fan of biographical dramas, sports films, or simply looking for an inspiring story, Young Woman and the Sea is well worth your time.
Watch the trailer and stream Young Woman and the Sea online through Disney+, Hulu, or your preferred rental service.
