The Tale of Powerlifting and Ambition: A Dive into “All She Can”

Alright, movie buffs, let’s dive right in with “All She Can.” This little gem’s directed by Amy Wendel, a name I wasn’t super familiar with, so you can imagine my surprise. It stars Corina Calderon—who, I must say, does a smashing job as Luz, a high schooler who’s way more determined than any of us were at 18!

The plot? Luz is in a tiny Texas town, grappling with the weight of dumbbells and bigger dreams. She wants something we’ve all felt that yearning for – to break free and make something of herself. Honestly, it took me right back to my own gym class days (good old modersmål lessons, not gym gym) when you do push-ups like your life depends on it but really, you’re just trying to impress someone or figure yourself out.

What really got me was Luz’s passion for powerlifting. I never really dabbled in weights myself, unless you count lugging my brother’s LP collection around. But watching her grunt and sweat, there’s something universally relatable in her struggles—almost like the Swedish concept of “sisu,” ya know?

Now, there are moments in the film where I wasn’t sure where it was heading—like, is this about sports, family drama, heartbreak, or all of ’em? And some scenes might leave you squinting and thinking “what just happened?” Still, Wendel’s naturalistic style, with its sweaty, gritty textures, gives the film an authentic vibe I dig.

I think, the film speaks to how we’re all trying to prove something, maybe to ourselves or to others. And though some bits didn’t resonate entirely with me—like the slightly predictable script—Calderon really sells Luz’s determination.

So, if you love a good story of grit and ambition with a dash of “finnur sisu,” and want to remember what it was like to be a wild-eyed, hopeful teenager, “All She Can” might just lift your spirits—or at least give you a nudge to hit on new goals. Just maybe skip doing push-ups in the fika break, eh?

Check the trailer below