Frameline48: Rookie

When competitive tension turns to romantic tension and passion, two highschool athletes must come to terms with their conflicting emotions. The perfect film for fans of the WLW genre, Rookie is a sapphic romance with balls — volleyballs and basketballs, that is.

Arriving at a new school, tall and shy basketball star Ace is surprised to find herself recruited for the girls’ volleyball team on day one. While her enthusiastic coach sees her athletic potential, Jana, the popular team captain, sees her as a potential threat. So why is it that Jana keeps showing up in Ace’s daydreams? As she becomes a spiking powerhouse on the team, Ace eventually finds common ground with Jana as the team makes their way to the regional championship. Writer/director Samantha Lee follows her sensational Filipina romances Billie and Emma (Frameline43) and Maybe Tomorrow (Frameline41) with this sweet and salty love story that juggles new love with the power of team spirit.