Love, Simon

I was afraid this would be so sticky sweet I'd end up in a sugar coma. I was pleased to be completely wrong. I identified with Simon (even though I finished high school in '84). The fear of losing your family and friends makes the secret you carry that much more of a burden. This movie helps us all find peace in ourselves and teach us to celebrate our unique traits. Put this down as a feel good classic that will endure. I'm happy I went.

Finally. A Hollywood studio producing a big LGBT romantic comedy.

Based on the YA book this film is really something special.

Not preachy, but heartfelt, this film deserves the hype and love from fans it has in turn earned.

Well worth a watch.

I didn't think I would, but - I loved it.

The first 15 minutes or so, I cringed a few times, thinking it was going to be too clever, too cute, and too precious for its own good.

But even my cynical, hard-hearted self soon melted with the realization that the intelligence, depth, and charm were all legitimate and sincere.

I left the theater with a full heart and am confident "Love, Simon" will remain with me as one of my favorites of this new film year.

Here are my thoughts about Love, Simon:

First, it was definitely the best movie adaptation of a book I've ever seen. Hands down. It was also an extremely authentic story to begin with, and it translated so well as a movie.

Second, I wish this movie had been around when I was younger. The message of love and acceptance was so powerful, and the way Simon and his friends were portrayed was amazing. Kudos to the actors. The whole theater was cheering, laughing, and crying with them.

Representation matters. Our kids need to see themselves on screen in movies like this.

This is going to drive the fundamentalists crazy. Imagine a film where the central character is a gay teen coming to grips with his sexuality and his parents don't immediately rush him into conversion therapy. Nevertheless a kid like Nick Robinson still has a lot to deal with, who doesn't at that age. Fortunately he's got good friends and resources.

While debating when and how to come out, Robinson who probably set this person's gaydar on fire gets an e-mail from someone who says he's crushing out on him. Something way back when I was a latently gay teen myself I would never have dreamed of doing. Times have changed in over 50 years.

Anyway Robinson has a dual problem of finding out his secret admirer and just how and when to come out. From my decades of observing each coming out story is unique, each family dynamic is unique. No one can advise anyone on when and where to make the decision, they have to decide for themselves.

Anyway Robinson is a really likeable young actor and if you're going to have a first same sex love you could do far far worse.

I recommend this film highly, it should be seen by audiences everywhere.