Based on Becky Albertalli’s novel, ‘Love, Simon’ is a breath
of fresh air. For a long time, romance movies featuring gay characters
have usually ended in heartbreak. While this ‘gay romantic tragedy’ genre
has seen several films win praise and awards, it’s been frustrating not seeing
a gay romance without the spectre of death hovering over characters.
‘Love, Simon’ ignores that awful device and goes for a simple coming of age
romance. Although having a few gay clichés generally seen in American
movies, it dares to offer brightness amongst the gloom of cinematic same-sex
relationships.
Simon (Nick Robinson) is a closeted gay teenager attending
high school. Although close to his parents Jack (Josh Duhamel) and Emily
(Jennifer Garner), he hasn’t told them his secret. Whilst grappling with
this issue, he begins an on-line connection with a fellow class-mate. The
problem is this person goes under a codename with Simon left guessing as to who
he may be. Aided by his friends, Simon attempts to discover his current
crush and come out to his family.
Although walking a predictable path, ‘Love, Simon’ doesn’t
have any false sincerity. Many of the situations and feelings Simon has ring
true as he tries to solve his problems. Learning about love, betrayal and
hope, Simon’s journey from the film’s beginning is interesting. Whilst
occasionally indulging in the usual American sentimentality, the emotions the
characters feel seem real. The performances are all solid with a great
80’s-style soundtrack capturing the bright days for which Simon longs.
Greg Berlanti directs with compassion, making ‘Love, Simon’
feel more personal than most. Berlanti ensures the comedy and drama are
effectively mixed allowing the movie’s themes to clearly stand out. The
concept of having a mystery for audiences to solve also enables them to remain
invested in proceedings with the reveal not as easy as expected.
‘Love, Simon’ may be a little overlong and familiar, but it
marks its territory amidst a glut of ‘gay romantic despair’ films. Its
optimism makes it more daring than others and charts a unique course in the
teen-angst genre. With marriage equality now a reality, hopefully the
issues Simon faces will gradually fade with respectful acceptance being something
all should learn.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at movie
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