Somersault is a coming of age drama film, directed by Cate Shortland. The movie is set in a small town called Jindabyne, located in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, Australia. The story revolves around Heidi, a sixteen-year-old girl who is struggling to find her place in the world, after being caught by her mother in bed with her live-in boyfriend.
Heidi, played by Abbie Cornish, runs away from home and heads to Jindabyne, where she is taken in by a friendly motel owner. She meets a local boy named Joe, played by Sam Worthington, at a bar and the two begin a relationship. The film depicts the ups and downs of their relationship, as Heidi struggles to come to terms with her past and find a sense of belonging.
The movie portrays Heidi's sexual awakening and the emotional turmoil she experiences as a result of her actions and her mother's rejection. It also explores the themes of identity, class, and relationships in a small town. The film features stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the Snowy Mountains and the isolation of the town.
Somersault premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2004 and won numerous awards, including thirteen nominations at the Australian Film Institute Awards and eight wins. The movie has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of the protagonist's emotional journey and the impressive performances by the lead actors.