Suncoast

Movie Trailer

Release Date
February 2, 2024

Genre
Coming-of-Age Drama

Cast & Crew

• Nico Parker as Doris
• Laura Linney as Kristine
• Woody Harrelson as Paul Warren
• Daniella Taylor as Laci
• Ella Anderson as Brittany
• Amarr as Nate
• Ariel Martin as Megan Kaminski
• Keyla Monterroso Mejia as Nurse Mia
• Pam Dougherty as Sue
• Jason Burkey as Officer Chauncey
• Parker Sack as Adam
• Matt Walsh as Mr. Ladd
• Scott MacArthur as Sweet n’ Low

Director
Laura Chinn

Producer

• Jeremy Plager
• Francesca Silvestri
• Kevin Chinoy
• Oly Obst

Writer
Laura Chinn

Production Company

• Freestyle Picture Company
• 7 Deuce Entertainment

Distributed By
Searchlight Pictures

Running Time
109 minutes

Languages
English

Content Advisory

• Themes of illness and grief
• Emotional scenes
• Mild language

Movie Story
“Suncoast” is a poignant coming-of-age drama that delves into the life of a young woman named Doris, portrayed by Nico Parker. Set in the early 2000s, the film is a semi-autobiographical account inspired by the real-life experiences of writer-director Laura Chinn. At the heart of the narrative is Doris’s struggle as she navigates the complexities of her brother’s serious illness. The weight of her family’s situation is further compounded by her strained relationship with her mother, Kristine, played by Laura Linney.

As Doris grapples with the gravity of her brother’s condition, she encounters Paul Warren, an eccentric activist played by Woody Harrelson. Paul’s unconventional approach to life and his deep empathy for others draw Doris in, leading to an unexpected and transformative friendship. This relationship becomes a catalyst for Doris, helping her to confront her own fears, grief, and the responsibilities that come with growing up.

The film expertly weaves together the intimate moments of Doris’s life with the broader challenges faced by those living on the fringes of society. It explores themes of loss, resilience, and the power of human connection in times of adversity. As Doris grows closer to Paul, she begins to see the world through a new lens, one that is shaped by empathy, understanding, and a desire to make a difference, however small.

“Suncoast” is a moving portrayal of a young woman’s journey to find herself amidst the chaos of her circumstances. It is a story about the impact of illness on a family, the bonds that are formed in unexpected places, and the strength it takes to face the harsh realities of life. The film is both a tribute to those who live through similar struggles and a reminder of the importance of hope and friendship in the darkest of times.

Special Effects
The film employs subtle but effective visual effects to enhance the emotional depth of key scenes, particularly those involving Doris’s introspective moments and her interactions with Paul. The effects are not overly flashy but serve to deepen the viewer’s connection to the characters’ experiences.

Filming Locations

• Charleston, South Carolina, USA
• Moncks Corner, South Carolina, USA

Notable Quotes

• “Sometimes, the hardest thing is just showing up for the people you love.” – Paul Warren
• “You don’t have to be strong all the time; it’s okay to feel lost.” – Kristine

Behind-the-Scenes
Filming for “Suncoast” faced challenges due to Hurricane Ian, which caused a temporary halt in production. Despite these obstacles, the cast and crew resumed filming in October 2022, demonstrating their dedication to bringing this heartfelt story to life.

Awards

• Sundance Special Jury Award for Breakthrough Performance: Nico Parker

Final Verdict
“Suncoast” is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking film that beautifully captures the challenges of growing up under difficult circumstances. Laura Chinn’s directorial debut is a strong entry into the coming-of-age genre, offering a narrative that is both personal and universally relatable. With standout performances by Nico Parker, Laura Linney, and Woody Harrelson, this film is a must-watch for those who appreciate stories of resilience and human connection.

Image Source: by Eric Zachanowich/20th Century Studios