Young Hearts

Expectations were high for this film - and man, wow, not only did it deliver, but it delivered in style!

Beautiful cinematography, enjoyable music, adorable story that the viewer (especially ppl among the LMBTQ community) could identify with.

The struggles of the boy (Elias) were depicted masterfully, and the happy ending was excellent - good to see a movie that puts more emphasis on the positive side of the topic.

However, this is my only critics to the film (that's why it's 'only' 10/9) - that I found it overly optimistic. Real life, unfortunatelly, is not like this.

A little bit more screentime could have been devoted to some drama about bullying, or refusal, because let's face it, there are always haters in real life.

Yes, there were minor hints about this in the film here and there, but a few more scenes should have been put into it about the negative sides. This could have made Elias's fears more understandable. In the end, it created an almost dream-like scenario.

However, this is a minor issue. One that doesn't really snaps you out of the immersion at all.

(I just felt like I have to explain the 9 stars)

We have to also talk about how excellent the cast were! The actors played their role wonderfully - even the young ones, so hats off really.

Now stop wasting your time by reading my review, go and watch it instead!

Honestly, i don't know where to begin.

I never did a review, but i truely cant get over this masterpiece. It left me speechless. I did go through so much emotions, while watching this movie and now i don't know how i should feel - Happy? Sad? Empty? In a strange kind of way all of that at the same time, i guess.

But let me tell you - everything about that movie is just stunning.

To begin with the young actors, especially Lou Goossens - absolutely amazing how he expresses feelings without saying a word. But also the relationship and synergy between the characters fits just perfect.

The music by Ruben de Gheselle hits me so hard - im sure he will get awarded for his amazing work here.

The cinematography is just beautiful with all the landscape scenery and the strong colours.

And of course the message of the movie from regisseur anthony Schatteman will be so important for many young people and influence them in such a good way.

I truthfully believe we will hear so much good things about these guys and this movie in the future. For me it is just a masterpiece and deserves everything and more. 10/10.

I appreciate the way this story is told. It's also nice to see a good coming of age film that doesn't sexualize the characters. All their interactions are relatable. I love the confusion Elias has discovering who he is.

The thing I think I love the most about this film is how almost all of it is in the characters facial expressions. Great directing and acting there, especially by Goossens. Both the boys did a great job and all their interactions seem so genuine. It's refreshing to see people telling a realistic story that deals with actual things people go through. In that way, I can't help but compare this film with Close. Very glad I got the opportunity to watch it and I highly recommend it. I'll be keeping my eye on these young actors and I can't wait to see how they progress. I'll also be looking forward to what Schatteman does in the future.

What I loved most about the film is its gentle and honest approach to love and identity. It doesn't try to give simple answers to Elias' questions or rush him to a clear conclusion. Instead, it embraces the messiness and uncertainty of growing up. Watching Elias navigate his emotions and relationships felt deeply relatable, even if the specifics of his experience are unique. His connection with Alexander, in particular, was portrayed with care-neither romanticized nor judged, but shown as a natural and complex part of adolescence.

The film also explores how our environment shapes us. The small Belgian village is both comforting and confining for Elias. On one hand, it provides a close-knit community and a sense of stability. On the other, it creates expectations that can feel suffocating, especially when it comes to fitting in. This tension adds depth to the story, making Elias' journey not just about his personal feelings but also about how he sees himself in the world around him.

For me, Young Hearts is more than just a coming-of-age film-it's a reminder of how important it is to embrace who we are, even when it's not easy or clear. It captures the beauty and vulnerability of first experiences, from love to self-discovery. I was left feeling nostalgic for those moments in my own life when everything felt new and full of possibilities. If you appreciate heartfelt and nuanced storytelling, this film is definitely worth watching. It's a quiet but powerful story that stays with you long after it ends.

First, I have to compliment the amazing acting performance of both Lou Goossens (Elias) & Marius Desaeger (Alexander). They definitely had the possibility to break my heart while watching. Thankfully, they spared me. Tears did fall though.

Another aspect that I appreciated was the film's length. It struck the perfect balance - not too long to drag, yet long enough to allow for rich character development and a satisfying conclusion. The pacing felt natural, with every scene contributing something meaningful to the overall (love-)story.

The beautifully crafted cinematography definitely added a great bit to this 10/10 film. I am writing this just after watching it for the first time, but it for sure won't be the last time I will have watched this Anthony Schatteman masterpiece.

Young Hearts now has a very special place in my heart.