Young Hearts

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.

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.

This movie contains a very deep emotional weight, the story is very well argumented, the main characters act very well, at the point you don't even realize that you are watching a film, you think that all you are watching is perfectly real. The glances Lou and Marius or Elias and Alexander had were awesome, there was that touch of deep love. The emotions the characters had, those emotions are what probably a normal person would experience, that means it's all realistic, absolutely nothing looks acted or prepared, these makes a very special connection with the viewer and all the movie. Thanks Anthony, thanks Lou, thanks Marius you are bringing a big amount of happiness and feelings through people that experience this kind of thinks.

I truly love this film for its story and characters. Elias is in many children's hearts, showing how love is only once in a lifetime. I wish how this story goes for many who are still figuring out themselves or what love is to them. I like how spread out the film's storyline was and how from a young teen's perspective on growing up and facing his feelings of love. This is a remarkable movie by movie director Anthony Schatteman, everyone included! Especially Lou Goossens and Marius De Saeger for the main roles. I wished there was a film like this for me and others to see in the mid-2010s. I highly recommend a watch! I can't wait for it to come out digitally or in a physical copy!

"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.