Watch Learn to Swim

"Learn to Swim" is a poignant and visually striking drama that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the power of music in shaping human connections. Directed by Thyrone Tommy, this Canadian film made waves in 2021 for its heartfelt narrative and the compelling performances of its cast, led by Thomas Antony Olajide. Thomas Antony Olajide steps into the shoes of Dezi, a talented yet troubled jazz musician who finds himself at a critical juncture in his life and career. Dezi's journey is one of self-discovery and grappling with his past as he traverses the vibrant and sometimes unforgiving world of the contemporary jazz scene. The film captures the pulse of Toronto's diverse soundscape, immersing the audience in the rich aural experiences that define the lives of the characters.

Emma Ferreira portrays Selma, a character whose relationship with Dezi serves as a window into the soulful and complex nature of intimacy. As we peel back the layers of their connection, we see the interplay of passion and creativity that can both inspire and haunt an artist. Ferreira's portrayal of Selma showcases a multifaceted character that is equally captivating and mysterious, inviting viewers to ponder the depths to which love can transform us.

Supporting these two is a character played by Andrea Davis, another presence influential in Dezi's tumultuous journey. Davis's character offers a counterpoint to the experiences and emotions that Dezi confronts, rounding out the interpersonal dynamics that steer the film's narrative course.

"Learn to Swim" unfolds as a series of vignettes, employing a non-linear structure that mirrors the fragmented snippets of memories and melodies that often occupy an artist's mind. This storytelling technique blurs the lines between memory and reality, offering the audience a dreamlike experience that echoes the fluidity of jazz music itself.

The cinematography of the film deserves a special mention, as it adds an extra layer of richness to the storytelling. The camera captures the intimacy of performances and the intricacies of musicians' lives on and off stage. It echoes the film's themes through its use of close-ups and lingering shots that allow the viewers to feel the emotions of the characters and the energy of their art form.

Visually, the film evokes the sensual and improvisational qualities of jazz through its use of lighting and color. The hues and shadows that dance across the screen parallel the melodies and rhythms that drive the soundtrack, which is an integral aspect of "Learn to Swim". The music, intricately interwoven into the fabric of the narrative, serves as a character in its own right, conveying emotions words alone cannot express.

Thematically, "Learn to Swim" explores the ways in which trauma and artistic expression are intertwined. It delves into the concept of creativity as both a refuge and a battleground for those dealing with emotional scars. The film provokes thought on how the act of creation can be a form of healing, a means of communicating the incommunicable, and a vehicle for survival amid the storms of life.

Toronto itself plays a vital role in the film, providing a dynamic backdrop that reflects the multicultural diversity of its population and the eclectic nature of its music scene. The city's landscapes, from neon-lit nightclubs to tranquil waterfronts, serve as a canvas on which the characters’ stories are painted, highlighting the environmental influences that shape their experiences.

The direction by Thyrone Tommy is measured and thoughtful, allowing moments of silence and contemplation to balance the sensory richness of the film. He brings a fresh perspective to the portrayal of musicians, steering clear of cliched depictions to reveal the very human struggles they face. Tommy's attention to the nuances of character interactions and the subtleties of personal growth is evident throughout, creating a narrative that touches the soul.

"Learn to Swim" is a film for those who appreciate the intertwining of music and storytelling, who understand that the language of melody can communicate what words cannot. It is an invitation to dive deep into the realm of emotional exploration, accompanied by a jazz score that guides the heart through the ebb and flow of love, loss, and the undying hope that persists within the human spirit.

Learn to Swim is a 2021 romance movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6 and a MetaScore of 68.