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Julie Keeps Quiet

Ajyal Competition

Synopsis

Julie, a talented young tennis player at an elite academy, finds herself at the centre of a scandal when her coach is suddenly suspended amidst an investigation. As her peers are encouraged to come forward with their stories, Julie decides to stay silent, refusing to speak out about the situation. Her silence becomes both a shield and a burden as she navigates the mounting pressures from the academy, her teammates, and herself. The film deftly explores the complexities of silence as both a form of power and suppression, exploring the emotional and psychological impact of Julie’s decision.

Her inner turmoil unfolds slowly, offering a profound commentary on the broader societal expectations of women to speak out or remain silent in the face of adversity. Director Leonardo van Dijl crafts a nuanced narrative where every pause and unspoken word resonates, highlighting the tension between individual agency and external demands. With a standout performance by Tessa Van den Broeck in the title role, ‘Julie Keeps Quiet’ is a poignant and thought-provoking debut that examines how silence can be both a prison and a form of quiet resistance.

About the Directors

Leonardo van Dijl is a Belgian writer and director known for his emotionally charged storytelling. His short film ‘Stephanie’ (2020) was selected for prestigious festivals including Cannes, San Sebastian, and TIFF, winning multiple international awards. ‘Julie Keeps Quiet’ marks his feature debut, a co-production between Belgium and Sweden, which explores the nuances of silence, agency, and identity. With a strong focus on character-driven narratives, van Dijl’s work consistently sheds light on the complexities of human behaviour. He is an alumnus of several renowned film labs, including Berlinale and TIFF Talent Labs.

Credits

Director

Leonardo Van Dijl

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