Watch The Sea Change

The Sea Change is a 2011 drama film directed by Elizabeth Banks. The story follows the life of a young woman named Ali Merrick, played by Natalie Press. Ali is an aspiring journalist living in London who is ordered by her editor to take a break from her work after she becomes too close to a subject she is writing about. In an effort to clear her mind and rebuild her sense of self, Ali travels to a British seaside village where she grew up as a child. She stays with her grandparents, played by Janet McTeer and Siân Phillips, who own a quaint bed and breakfast. Ali quickly becomes enveloped in the world she left behind and begins to confront the secrets and unanswered questions surrounding her childhood.

As Ali navigates her way through old memories and reconnects with lost family members, she meets a young man named Joshua, played by Colin Morgan. Joshua is a free-spirited musician who is spending the summer in the village, and the two quickly form a connection. However, as Ali becomes more involved with Joshua, she also uncovers long-buried family secrets that threaten to tear apart her newfound sense of peace and stability.

The Sea Change is a beautifully shot film that captures the charm and nostalgia of small-town life. The performances by the cast are nuanced and authentic, particularly that of Natalie Press, who gives a powerful portrayal of a young woman confronting the demons of her past. The chemistry between Press and Morgan is also captivating, and their relationship provides a tender and poignant counterbalance to the heavier themes of the film.

One of the standout aspects of The Sea Change is its exploration of family dynamics and the impact of our upbringing on our adult lives. The film delves into the complexities of familial relationships and how the unspoken secrets and resentments of the past can shape our present and future. The theme of forgiveness, both for others and ourselves, is also a prominent thread throughout the film.

Overall, The Sea Change is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of love, family, and self-discovery. It is a poignant reminder that sometimes the greatest journeys we take are the ones that lead us back home.

The Sea Change is a 1998 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.