The Last Swim Review

Sasha Nathwani’s Last Swim is a deeply moving and visually stunning coming-of-age drama that explores friendship, ambition, and the unpredictability of life. Premiering at the 2024 Berlin International Film Festival, the film tells the story of Ziba (Deba Hekmat), a bright British-Iranian teenager on the cusp of adulthood. As she celebrates her A-level results with friends, she grapples with a personal crisis that forces her to rethink everything she thought she knew about her future.

Set over the course of a single summer’s day in London, Last Swim captures the energy and uncertainty of youth. Ziba’s plans for a night of fun with her best friends—Tara (Lydia Fleming), Shea (Solly McLeod), and Merf (Jay Lycurgo)—take an unexpected turn when they are ed by Malcolm (Denzel Baidoo), a former schoolmate dealing with struggles of his own. As the group roams the city, making the most of their fleeting time together, Ziba wrestles with a secret she’s not yet ready to share. The result is a story that feels as spontaneous as it is heartfelt, blending moments of joy with an underlying sense of urgency.

Nathwani’s direction brings London to life, not just as a backdrop but as an integral part of the film’s emotional journey. The cinematography beautifully captures the city’s vibrancy and chaos, mirroring the characters’ internal conflicts. From bustling streets to quiet moments by the water, every location serves a purpose, enhancing the film’s themes of nostalgia and self-discovery. The script feels natural, allowing the characters’ interactions to unfold organically, with dialogue that is both sharp and deeply human.

Deba Hekmat delivers a standout performance as Ziba, portraying her character’s internal struggle with authenticity and depth. The chemistry between the cast makes their friendships feel genuine, making the emotional moments hit even harder. Denzel Baidoo’s Malcolm adds another layer to the story, his presence subtly shifting the group’s dynamic in a way that feels effortless yet meaningful.

What sets Last Swim apart is its ability to balance lighthearted moments with profound themes. It doesn’t rely on exaggerated drama but instead presents a realistic portrait of young adulthood—full of laughter, uncertainty, and the painful realisation that life doesn’t always go as planned.

A beautifully crafted and deeply affecting debut, Last Swim is a film that lingers long after the credits roll. Sasha Nathwani proves himself as a director to watch, delivering a story that is as poetic as it is powerful.