Crux
By Gabriel Tallent
Review by Josh
This underdog story explores the value of deep friendship and connection – and the fine line that can see these tip over into obsession, especially in the emotional maelstrom of young adulthood. Dan and Tamma are two Californian teens entering their final year of high school; both have life problems beyond the challenging bouldering “send” they want to achieve. Tamma is pigeonholed as feral white trash with a foul mouth to match and Dan as the bright boy squandering his potential. In each other they see the pain and messiness of life reflected – as well as the nascent strength required to make it through. As the bouldering climbs get more dangerous, and their lives grow more complicated, they learn to trust one another and themselves. A moving and powerful coming of age story that will leave you sweaty-palmed and teary-eyed.
