Release calendarTop 250 moviesMost popular moviesBrowse movies by genreTop box officeShowtimes & ticketsMovie newsIndia movie spotlight
    What's on TV & streamingTop 250 TV showsMost popular TV showsBrowse TV shows by genreTV news
    What to watchLatest trailersIMDb OriginalsIMDb PicksIMDb SpotlightFamily entertainment guideIMDb Podcasts
    OscarsEmmysSan Diego Comic-ConSummer Watch GuideToronto Int'l Film FestivalSTARmeter AwardsAwards CentralFestival CentralAll events
    Born todayMost popular celebsCelebrity news
    Help centerContributor zonePolls
For industry professionals
  • Language
  • Fully supported
  • English (United States)
    Partially supported
  • Français (Canada)
  • Français (France)
  • Deutsch (Deutschland)
  • हिंदी (भारत)
  • Italiano (Italia)
  • Português (Brasil)
  • Español (España)
  • Español (México)
Watchlist
Sign in
  • Fully supported
  • English (United States)
    Partially supported
  • Français (Canada)
  • Français (France)
  • Deutsch (Deutschland)
  • हिंदी (भारत)
  • Italiano (Italia)
  • Português (Brasil)
  • Español (España)
  • Español (México)
Use app
  • Cast & crew
  • User reviews
  • Trivia
IMDbPro

Young Hearts

  • 2024
  • 1h 39m
IMDb RATING
7.9/10
6.2K
YOUR RATING
POPULARITY
1,849
723
Lou Goossens and Marius De Saeger in Young Hearts (2024)
Watch Trailer [OV]
Play trailer1:48
1 Video
62 Photos
Coming-of-AgeDramaFamilyRomance

Elias develops feelings for his new neighbor Alexander. He soon realizes he's falling in love for the first time.Elias develops feelings for his new neighbor Alexander. He soon realizes he's falling in love for the first time.Elias develops feelings for his new neighbor Alexander. He soon realizes he's falling in love for the first time.

  • Director
    • Anthony Schatteman
  • Writer
    • Anthony Schatteman
  • Stars
    • Lou Goossens
    • Marius De Saeger
    • Geert Van Rampelberg
  • See production info at IMDbPro
  • IMDb RATING
    7.9/10
    6.2K
    YOUR RATING
    POPULARITY
    1,849
    723
    • Director
      • Anthony Schatteman
    • Writer
      • Anthony Schatteman
    • Stars
      • Lou Goossens
      • Marius De Saeger
      • Geert Van Rampelberg
    • 91User reviews
    • 41Critic reviews
    • 69Metascore
  • See production info at IMDbPro
    • Awards
      • 9 wins & 8 nominations total

    Videos1

    Trailer [OV]
    Trailer 1:48
    Trailer [OV]

    Photos62

    View Poster
    View Poster
    View Poster
    View Poster
    View Poster
    View Poster
    + 56
    View Poster

    Top cast31

    Edit
    Lou Goossens
    • Elias
    Marius De Saeger
    • Alexander
    Geert Van Rampelberg
    Geert Van Rampelberg
    • Luk
    Emilie De Roo
    Emilie De Roo
    • Nathalie
    Dirk van Dijck
    Dirk van Dijck
    • Fred
    Jul Goossens
    • Maxime
    Ezra Van Dongen
    • Line
    Olivier Englebert
    • Marc
    Olga De Saeger
    • Ella
    Wim Opbrouck
    Wim Opbrouck
    • Tony
    Florence Hebbelynck
    • Pia
    La Diva
    • Lady Lana
    Saar Rogiers
    • Valerie
    Jill Malfroot
    • Lukas
    Cassie Alcendor
    • Lize
    Samba Thiam
    • Matteo
    Sam Michiels
    • Mieke
    Marie Gevaert
    • Lore
    • Director
      • Anthony Schatteman
    • Writer
      • Anthony Schatteman
    • All cast & crew
    • Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

    User reviews91

    7.96.1K
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5
    6
    7
    8
    9
    10

    Featured reviews

    9BeneCumb

    Pleasant and warm film "appropriate" for adults as well

    Young Hearts is a beautiful and emotional film about first love. The film follows the journey of Elias, a 14-year-old boy who lives in a quiet village in Belgium, his self-discovery, confusion, and love. What makes the Series special is how real and gentle everything feels. The story has no big drama or shocking twists, but focuses on small, honest moments-looks, touches, and conversations. The emotions feel true and familiar and there is neither sexualisation of minors nor robust entering into the adult world.

    Lou Goossens, who plays Elias, gives an amazing performance. He shows so much emotion just through his eyes and face. His acting feels completely natural, and it is easy to understand what Elias is feeling. Marius De Saeger as Alexander is his more experienced partner who is a deserved mate to him - through different ups and downs. The music and the soft, warm camera work also help create a peaceful and loving mood throughout the film.

    True, one might say the film is a bit too hopeful or doesn't show enough of the hard parts of coming out, but Belgium is one of the countries where being gay has been more or less tolerated for decades. It is refreshing to see a story that focuses on the beauty of young love without making it too dramatic or tragic.

    In short, Young Hearts is a sweet, sensitive, and important film. It shows that love-especially first love-can be something magical. 9 points from me as I am not in the target audience - but I liked it a lot.
    10twente-63788

    A Tale of Self-Discovery and First Love

    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.
    9psycho_1010

    Excellent, loveably movie

    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!
    10CourtneyWestmorreland

    A Universal Anthem of Love, Healing, and Authenticity

    "Young Hearts" (2024) is not just a coming-of-age story; it is a cinematic revolution that transcends generational divides, offering profound healing and understanding to audiences worldwide. Directed with exceptional care and featuring a cast of talented actors who bring raw authenticity to the screen, this 2024 masterpiece addresses the often-overlooked struggles of emotional suppression, identity, and love-issues that resonate deeply with Generation Alpha, older Gen Z, Millennials, and beyond.

    At its core, the film chronicles the tender journey of two adolescent boys navigating their emotions, identities, and the world around them. But it is so much more than a tale of self-discovery. It gently dismantles societal norms that have long stifled genuine expression, creating a safe space for viewers of all ages to confront their truths and embrace their authentic selves. The narrative weaves a tapestry of support, love, and understanding, offering a blueprint for what a nurturing, inclusive environment can look like for anyone struggling with suppressed emotions or questions of identity.

    What sets Young Hearts apart is its universal accessibility. The film is age-appropriate for anyone-from teens grappling with their first crushes to adults unpacking childhood traumas or rediscovering the courage to love freely. It highlights the importance of empathy and connection, creating a sense of hope that is desperately needed in today's world.

    The film's global impact is nothing short of remarkable. Within weeks of its release, Young Hearts has sparked conversations across continents, becoming a cultural touchstone for individuals and communities yearning for representation and acceptance. It is not simply a "cute movie" about two boys-it is a bold statement that love is love, and that everyone deserves the freedom to express it.

    The direction is a masterclass in storytelling, capturing the quiet moments of vulnerability and the transformative power of compassion. The performances are nothing short of extraordinary, with the young leads delivering nuanced portrayals that leave a lasting impression. Together, the cast and crew have created a film that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.

    This is undoubtedly a 10/10 film that deserves to sweep every major category at the Academy Awards. From its screenplay to its cinematography, acting, and cultural significance, Young Hearts is a triumph in every sense of the word. Bravo to the creators for crafting a film that not only entertains but also heals and empowers.

    A sequel is not just desired-it is necessary. This monumental work has only scratched the surface of the stories that need to be told. The world is ready for more.
    10larsroth

    Truely a masterpiece

    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.

    More like this

    In a Heartbeat
    7.5
    In a Heartbeat
    Shower Boys
    6.8
    Shower Boys
    A Game
    6.7
    A Game
    Before I Change My Mind
    6.3
    Before I Change My Mind
    The Son
    7.8
    The Son
    Gayby Baby
    6.8
    Gayby Baby
    The Home in the Tree
    6.8
    The Home in the Tree
    For Tor's Sake
    6.5
    For Tor's Sake
    Swim Team
    7.4
    Swim Team
    Jays in the Head
    6.7
    Jays in the Head
    Robby
    5.9
    Robby
    It's Not Me, I Swear!
    7.4
    It's Not Me, I Swear!

    Storyline

    Edit

    Did you know

    Edit
    • Trivia
      Elias's (Lou Goosens) older brother in the film is his real brother and Alexander's (Marius De Saeger) younger sister in the film is Marius's actual sister.
    • Goofs
      After the pool party and drinking beer with his friends, Elias and his girlfriend settle in to sleep for the night and Elias is wearing a light green T-shirt. In the next shot he awakens unsettled, and the shirt is gone. The shot after that has him on his bicycle at night, wearing the shirt again.
    • Quotes

      Alexander: What are you doing?

      Elias: Being your petit copain

    • Connections
      References Romeo + Juliet (1996)
    • Soundtracks
      Bloete Voeten
      Performed by Maksim

    Top picks

    Sign in to rate and Watchlist for personalized recommendations
    Sign in

    Details

    Edit
    • Release date
      • December 18, 2024 (Belgium)
    • Countries of origin
      • Belgium
      • Netherlands
    • Official site
      • Official site
    • Languages
      • Dutch
      • French
    • Also known as
      • 盛夏心動
    • Filming locations
      • Grand Place / Grote Markt, 1000 Brussel, Belgium(Brussel Square)
    • Production companies
      • Kwassa Films
      • Polar Bear
    • See more company credits at IMDbPro

    Box office

    Edit
    • Gross worldwide
      • $2,416
    See detailed box office info on IMDbPro

    Tech specs

    Edit
    • Runtime
      1 hour 39 minutes
    • Color
      • Color
    • Aspect ratio
      • 1.85 : 1

    Contribute to this page

    Suggest an edit or add missing content
    • Learn more about contributing
    Edit page

    More to explore

    Recently viewed

    Please enable browser cookies to use this feature. Learn more.
    Get the IMDb App
    Sign in for more accessSign in for more access
    Follow IMDb on social
    Get the IMDb App
    For Android and iOS
    Get the IMDb App
    • Help
    • Site Index
    • IMDbPro
    • Box Office Mojo
    • License IMDb Data
    • Press Room
    • Advertising
    • Jobs
    • Conditions of Use
    • Privacy Policy
    • Your Ads Privacy Choices
    IMDb, an Amazon company

    © 1990-2025 by IMDb.com, Inc.