(Charlène Favier, 2020, France, 92 minutes)

15-year-old Lyz (rising French star Noée Abita, of 2017's Ava) gets the opportunity of her life when she's accepted at a prestigious and exclusive ski club, despite her relative lack of experience. While working hard to prove she belongs, her instructor Fred (Jérémie Renier, immediately recognizable to fans of the Dardenne brothers) sees potential in her and directs special attention her way, both as a mentor and as a predator. Carefully navigating deeply unpleasant terrain, first-time feature director/co-writer Charlène Favier quickly establishes herself as a filmmaker to watch.  Slalom was selected for 2020 Cannes Film Festival and played the Rendez-vous with French Cinema festival last month to great acclaim.

Rent the film ($12 for five days) here.