“Suncoast” follows the tumultuous life of Doris, a teenager grappling with significant hardships, including the loss of her father, her brother’s terminal cancer, and her overwhelmed mother’s attempts to cope. Amidst her struggles, Doris encounters Paul, an activist who becomes a guiding presence in her life.
Their initial meeting occurs at a fast-food restaurant, where Paul intervenes to help Doris when she can’t afford her meal. This encounter sparks a friendship, with Paul offering support and advice as Doris navigates her complex family dynamics and attempts to find her place in the world.
As Doris and Paul’s bond deepens, Doris’s mother, Kristine, continues to struggle, straining her relationship with her daughter further. Despite Paul’s efforts to foster forgiveness and understanding, Doris grapples with her own desires and struggles to prioritize her needs amidst the chaos of her life.
Paul’s own personal tragedy, the loss of his wife to a brain aneurysm, adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the interconnectedness of grief and resilience.
Despite Paul’s guidance, Doris finds herself drawn into reckless behavior, seeking validation from new friends and ignoring her family’s needs. A pivotal moment arises when her mother falsely claims her brother is dying, prompting Doris to rush to his bedside, only to discover the deception upon arrival.
The climax of the film occurs during prom night, where Doris’s conflicting emotions come to a head as she grapples with guilt and grief. Despite her initial decision to attend prom, Doris ultimately rushes to the hospital, but arrives too late to say goodbye to her brother.
The film’s conclusion is a poignant reflection on the consequences of Doris’s choices and the enduring impact of trauma. Despite Paul’s efforts to guide her, Doris’s journey ends in heartache and regret, highlighting the complexities of healing and self-discovery in the face of adversity.