Berlin, Germany – – Bella Ramsey, already a household name thanks to roles in “Game of Thrones” and “The Last of Us,” is generating buzz at the Berlin International Film Festival with “Sunny Dancer,” a British comedy-drama that offered the actor a chance to experience a teenage life largely missed while working. The film, directed and written by George Jaques, premiered in the Generation 14plus strand and is garnering attention for its unflinching look at the psychological impact of cancer, balanced with a distinctly British sense of humor.
Ramsey plays Ivy, a 17-year-old in remission from leukemia who reluctantly attends a summer camp specifically designed for teen cancer survivors. The premise, initially met with skepticism by Ramsey, ultimately proved to be a surprisingly positive experience. “I was anticipating a whole lot of cringe,” Ramsey admitted to The Hollywood Reporter. “The email came through, and I’m like, ‘Oh, I’m gonna hate this.’” Ramsey feared the film would fall into cliché, “a recipe for disaster,” but found the experience to be “probably the best six weeks of my life so far.”
The film distinguishes itself by focusing on the lives of these young adults *after* the battle with cancer, exploring the emotional fallout and the challenges of reintegrating into a “normal” teenage existence. As Jaques articulated, the film aims to present a narrative where cancer is not the defining characteristic of these individuals, but rather a part of their complex stories. This approach is reflected in the film’s exploration of first loves, friendships, and the search for identity, all set against the backdrop of a summer camp environment.
“Sunny Dancer” features an ensemble cast of rising British talent, including Ruby Stokes, Daniel Quinn-Toye, and Conrad Khan, alongside established actors like Neil Patrick Harris, Jessica Gunning, and James Norton. Harris plays the camp leader, while Gunning and Norton portray Ivy’s parents, attempting to navigate their daughter’s recovery and encourage her participation in a life beyond illness. The presence of these actors is expected to broaden the film’s appeal, though some observers note the film’s British cultural references may present a challenge for international audiences.
Reviews have been mixed, with The Hollywood Reporter describing the film as “uneven but fitfully charming,” praising Ramsey’s performance but noting moments of melodrama. The review highlights the film’s strength in the improvisational moments between the young cast members, which inject a much-needed dose of authenticity into the narrative. Screen Daily similarly acknowledges the film’s heavy themes but commends its “peppy, accessible package,” suggesting potential for further festival attention, particularly in events focused on young adult stories.
For Ramsey, the role offered a unique opportunity to experience aspects of adolescence that were bypassed during a childhood largely spent on set. “I was finding myself,” Ramsey explained, describing the process of playing Ivy as “a real personal journey of me experiencing teenage years I never got to experience because I was working since I was 11.” This personal connection to the material appears to have deeply resonated with the actor, contributing to a performance that is being widely praised.
The film’s production marks a significant step for George Jaques, following his 2023 debut, “Black Dog,” which tackled the subject of depression. Jaques, a former Screen Star of Tomorrow, demonstrates a willingness to confront challenging themes with sensitivity and nuance. “Sunny Dancer” represents a continuation of this approach, offering a complex and often humorous portrayal of young people grappling with serious issues.
While the film’s commercial prospects remain to be seen, its premiere at the Berlin Film Festival has undoubtedly raised its profile. The combination of a compelling story, a talented cast, and a director with a clear vision positions “Sunny Dancer” as a noteworthy entry in the young adult drama genre. The film’s exploration of life beyond illness, and its celebration of the resilience and humor of these young survivors, offer a refreshing perspective on a topic often shrouded in sadness and despair.
The film reportedly includes moments of both joy and heartbreak, with bonds forged, relationships explored, and even a death occurring within the camp’s confines, all punctuated by montages set to popular music. The script, according to reviews, blends carefully crafted scenes with moments of improvisation, allowing the young cast to bring their own experiences and perspectives to the story. This dynamic interplay between structure and spontaneity appears to be a key element of the film’s appeal.
