Dive ★★★

THE abuse of power and trust within the complex dynamic of elite sport is examined in the Spanish drama Dive.

There have been quite a few similar films released during the past few years and they’ve largely been pretty good.

Dive, released in 2022, is not an exception.

As the title suggests, the film is set within a Mexican diving academy that is preparing its squad for the coming Olympics.

Mariel is one of the older divers and hoping to gain the elusive gold in her third and possibly final Games.

For years she has been coached by the enigmatic veteran Braulio who has also become a close friend of her family.

Mariel’s best chance is in the duo event off the high platform, but everything is thrown into disarray when her partner injures her back.

A talented young teenager, Nadia, is the replacement handpicked by Brulio who has also taken her under his wing.

Mariel is angry that her chances of success are now reliant on such an inexperienced diver and she clashes with Brulio who also seems to not be paying Mariel as much attention.

But then accusations of sexual assault are made, throwing plans and relationships into turmoil.

The strong script delivers three interesting characters with Karla Souza leading the way in an award-winning performance as Mariel.

Watched on Amazon Prime.