Lingering: A Gymnastics-Sized Dose of Family Drama
Imagine being a rising star in the gymnastics world, only to have your dreams shattered faster than a cheap trophy at a toddler’s birthday party. Welcome to Ava’s life, where a tragic injury turns her from a future Olympic champion into a couch potato with a side of existential dread. Enter her estranged sister Nicole, a whirlwind of chaos and questionable life choices, who arrives just in time to shake things up—because nothing says family bonding like a surprise visit from someone you barely know!
The film kicks off with Ava wallowing in her self-pity like a pro. She’s stuck at home, and her biggest challenge is deciding which streaming service to binge next. Her mom, bless her heart, is trying her best to be supportive while simultaneously pushing Ava to find a “new passion.” Spoiler alert: it’s not working. Ava’s idea of passion is scrolling through social media, where she can watch other people live their best lives. But as fate would have it, Nicole—who’s clearly been taking notes from the “How to Disrupt Your Sibling’s Life” handbook—shows up with a plan that’s about as solid as a jelly-filled donut.
Nicole, ever the free spirit, believes that the answer to Ava’s problems lies in confronting their shared past. Because when you’re already spiraling, the last thing you need is a family therapy session disguised as a road trip. Yes, that’s right! They hit the road, and let’s just say, it’s a bumpy ride filled with awkward silences, forced bonding moments, and a whole lot of unresolved sibling issues. As they visit their old gymnastics gym, you can practically hear the echoes of their childhood dreams—and the sound of Ava’s heart breaking all over again.
In a series of cringe-worthy yet relatable moments, Nicole attempts to coach Ava back into the world of gymnastics. Spoiler: it doesn’t go well. Ava’s first attempt at a handstand ends with her face meeting the mat, and suddenly, it’s like watching a car crash in slow motion. You can’t look away! But just when things seem hopeless, Nicole drops a bombshell: she’s always looked up to Ava. Cue the emotional music and the dramatic sisterly embrace that you just knew was coming, but hey, we love a good cliché.
As the film progresses, we see Ava slowly begin to rediscover her passion—not just for gymnastics, but for life itself. Nicole’s chaotic charm and relentless positivity somehow manage to chip away at Ava’s wall of despair. They bond over shared memories, awkward family dinners, and the realization that maybe—just maybe—they can be each other’s saving grace. Who knew all it took was a little sibling rivalry to bring out the best in each other?
By the end, Ava’s ready to step back into the gym—not just to reclaim her former glory, but to forge a new path that includes her sister. And let’s be real: who doesn’t love a good comeback story? The film wraps up with a heartwarming montage of their training, complete with cheesy motivational music that screams, “You can do it!” Just when you think you’re safe, the credits roll and leave you with one last chuckle: Ava’s mom, in a surprise twist, decides to take up competitive knitting. Because why not? Family dynamics are best tackled with a side of yarn!
In summary, Lingering is a heartfelt exploration of family, dreams, and the occasional faceplant. It’s a reminder that sometimes, life’s greatest challenges can lead to the most unexpected reunions. So, grab your sister, hit the gym, and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions—just make sure to avoid any handstands!