Weightless

Fifteen-year-old Lea attends a summer camp with the goal of losing weight. Her roommate is the confident and rebellious Sasha, who openly talks about her sexual experiences. Soon, something new and exhilarating begins to stir in Lea as she develops a crush on Rune, an adult man and an instructor from the camp.

With sensitivity, the film explores themes like body image, sexual awakening and the abuse of authority. It offers an intriguing reflection on looking and being looked at, as well as the desire to be seen and accepted. The young campers are encouraged to lose weight and their bodies are measured, yet the film itself does not idealise any particular body type. Its close-ups of bodies feel documentary-like, even tender, rather than judgmental or sexualising.

Weightless is set against beautiful rural summer landscapes, and it marks Emilie Thalund’s feature directorial debut. The film won the New Directors Award at the San Sebastián International Film Festival and in the leading role, Marie Helweg Augustsen delivers a breakthrough performance.

Emma Petäjäaho