Watching coming of age films is always enjoyable, especially when the story revolves around teenagers searching for their identity, including their sexual identity.
Now, for those of you looking for recommendations for gay coming of age films, here are 5 films that you must watch:
Wildhood (2022)
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Wildhood is a Canadian romantic drama film from 2021 that tells the story of Link (Phillip Lewitski), a teenager living in a trailer park with his tyrannical stepfather and half-brother, Travis (Avery Winters-Anthony). His life takes a turn when he discovers the possibility that his Mi'kmaq heritage mother is still alive. Link and Travis escape, hoping to find a better life.
On their journey, they encounter Pasmay (Joshua Odjick), a pow wow dancer who becomes interested in Link. The journey across Mi'kma'ki, Link's ancestral land, becomes a quest for self-discovery, acceptance of identity, and finding love. Link eventually experiences a sense of belonging, community, and love in a place where he truly belongs.
Wildhood explores LGBTQ+ themes through the relationship between Link and Pasmay. However, the film is more than just a love story. It is an emotional journey of self-discovery, facing the past, and learning to accept who we are. The film also sheds light on the life and culture of the Mi'kmaq community.
Fireworks (2023)
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Fireworks is a 2023 Italian LGBTQ+ romantic drama film directed by Giuseppe Fiorello. The film is set in Sicily in 1982, during Italy's dream of winning the World Cup. It tells the story of the love between two teenage boys, Gianni and Nino, who face harsh prejudice from society and their families as their relationship becomes public.
Despite its clichéd theme, the film successfully touches the hearts of the audience with a sincere portrayal of friendship, love, courage, and genuine passion. However, it has also faced criticism for its lengthy duration (2 hours 13 minutes) and inconsistent character development.
Overall, Fireworks is a worthwhile watch, especially for fans of LGBTQ+ drama and tragic love stories. However, viewers should be prepared for a slow-paced plot and characters that may at times seem inconsistent.
Blessed Boys (2021)
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Under the scorching sun of Naples, Italy, the friendship between two 18-year-old youths, Mario and Lino, blossoms. Trapped in the routine life of Sanitá, their small world is shaken when Lino's younger sister, Annaluce, is hailed as a living saint due to a "miracle" she witnessed. Their family life undergoes a drastic change. Amidst this family drama, Mario secretly harbors feelings of love for the unaware Lino.
Caught in unrequited love and a monotonous life, Mario seeks an escape. "Blessed Boys" takes us into the story of Mario, a young man struggling with doubt, loneliness, and fear, a poignant reflection of unexpressed same-sex love. The film is rich in natural acting, realistic European vibes, and an intimate narrative about humanity. Despite the slightly disappointing turn of Lino's storyline towards the end, the relatable portrayal of the character Mario and the captivating soundtrack make this film worthy of being your favorite.
So, if you're a fan of European drama with a touch of realism and humanistic storytelling, "Blessed Boys" is ready to take you to Naples, Sanitá, and the emotional depths of a young man named Mario. Enjoy!
Close (2022)
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Close is not just an ordinary teenage drama film. This Belgian film, directed by Lukas Dhont, presents the intense and close friendship between two 13-year-old boys, Leo and Remi, resembling brothers. They play together, eat together, and even sleep together - like an ideal brotherly bond.
However, their world begins to be disturbed when they enter school. Mockery and unpleasant whispers about their intimacy start to emerge. Leo, who is naturally more extroverted, slowly begins to distance himself from Remi. This alienation and social pressure trigger a series of unexpected tragic events, leading to the sudden disappearance of Remi.
Remi's departure is like a storm hitting Leo and Sophie, Remi's mother. This film not only explores the sense of loss and piercing pain but also addresses complex themes.
Close is not a film that offers easy answers. Instead, it invites the audience to reflect on the complexity of human relationships, the impact of the environment on individuals, and how we face loss and trauma.
Despite its not-so-long duration (around 105 minutes), Close manages to leave a profound impression. It's no wonder that the film received numerous awards in 2022.
For drama film enthusiasts who appreciate emotional storytelling and captivating acting, Close is a must-watch. However, it should be noted that this film touches on sensitive themes that may evoke emotions for some viewers.
Those are the 5 coming-of-age gay films that you must watch. These films will touch your heart with the stories of love and the struggles of teenagers in finding their true selves.
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