This poignant film promises to be a significant addition to the conversation surrounding trauma and resilience in storytelling, watch the trailer below.
Hannah Peterson, a promising first-time feature filmmaker, makes a powerful entrance into the cinematic world with her debut film, “The Graduates.” Guided by the mentorship of acclaimed directors Chloé Zhao and Sean Baker, Peterson delivers a moving narrative that delicately explores life in the aftermath of tragedy.
“The Graduates” centers on Genevieve, portrayed by breakout star Mina Sundwall (known for Netflix’s ‘Lost in Space), as she approaches high school graduation amidst the emotional turmoil following a devastating event. The film navigates the uncertain futures of Genevieve and her community, who are united in their search for healing and hope. Following its world premiere at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, “The Graduates” garnered critical acclaim, winning the Best Cinematography award for Carolina Costa’s stunning work.
Critics have praised the film for its unique perspective on the aftermath of tragedy. IndieWire noted, “Peterson’s film is about the world that exists after a terrible crime, not the one before, not the one during, certainly not the one that caused it. In this world, there are only survivors, and they’ve all pursued different versions of what ‘normal’ feels like after the worst possible thing has happened.” The review also draws a parallel between Peterson’s work and Megan Park’s SXSW winner “The Fallout,” highlighting how both filmmakers tackle similar themes through distinct lenses.
Peterson not only directed but also wrote and edited “The Graduates.” The film is backed by an impressive team of executive producers, including Academy Award winner Chloé Zhao (“Nomadland”), Jessamine Burgum and Kara Durrett from Pinky Promise, Meena Harris of Phenomenal Media, and John Cho, who also stars in the film. The production team features producers Josh Peters, Saba Zerehi, Taylor Shung, and Burgum.
“The Graduates” is set to make its theatrical debut across the U.S. on Friday, November 1, starting with a screening at Metrograph in New York City. This release marks a significant step for The Future of Film Is Female, founded by Caryn Coleman, as it expands from exhibition to distribution, focusing on independent films directed by women and nonbinary filmmakers.
Be sure to catch the first trailer for “The Graduates,”
A powerful and sharply introspective coming-of-age drama, THE GRADUATES follows a young woman, Genevieve (Mina Sundwall), as she prepares to graduate high school after a tragic event. As she navigates an uncertain future alongside a community searching for ways to heal, they turn to each other to find hope and a way forward.
“If there was ever a film to watch about mourning and learning to adjust to a new normal, it’s Peterson’s poignant masterpiece.”- Mae Abdulbaki, Screenrant
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