A sultry summer film, where heat and desire go hand in hand. This adaptation of Deborah Levy's book of the same name exudes languor and elusive tension. Beneath the surface simmers an existential quest that is as confusing as a sticky July day.

Sofia (Emma Mackey) and her mother Rose (Fiona Shaw) spend the summer in the coastal town of Almería, where Rose is treated by the charming Dr. Gómez for the unexplained physical ailments that confine her to a wheelchair. During their stay under the sweltering Spanish sun, Sofia is mesmerised by the appeal of the liberal-minded Ingrid (Vicky Krieps). As the temperature rises and Sofia becomes more confident, the bond between her and her mother becomes increasingly fragile... Underneath it all simmers an existential quest that is as confusing as a sticky July day.

Hot Milk is the directorial debut of Rebecca Lenkiewicz, who previously wrote the screenplays for The Salt Path, Ida, Disobedience and She Said. The film premiered in competition at the Berlin Film Festival.