The Violators

After testifying against her abusive father, teenage Shelly and her brothers are turned over to the social services. At an age when other girls are usually dealing with boyfriend issues, Shelly has to look after a dysfunctional family living on a sink estate in a derelict part of town. The only escape from this dismal existence is her unexpected friendship with the wealthy Rachel and the equally sudden protection of the local loan shark who wants to help the troubled family out. But neither of them is offering their friendship for free and their encounters will have consequences. This visually sophisticated film documents life on the brink, from which there is little chance of escape, and explores the urban wasteland of a society in decay, where everything costs something. When her father is given early parole Shelly has to make some quick decisions and may find herself growing up before her time. (Karlovy Vary International Film Festival)