Today will mark three years since the film’s release in the UK. I don’t know about you, but I’m a sucker for an American, teen coming-of-age rom-com. I discovered one of my new favourites: Love, Simon.
The story centres on Simon Spier, a teenager with a secret: he’s gay. And he’ll do anything to keep this quiet – but when someone from his school anonymously comes out, Simon tries to track him down, jeopardising his own privacy in the process. The narrative which unravels is difficult but heart-warming.
Initially, I had my reservations, as the film is based on a Becky Albertalli novel (‘Simon versus the Homo Sapiens Agenda’), and after reading her ‘The Upside of Unrequited’ I was sure that I would dislike Love, Simon. However, just minutes into the film, I fell in love with it! The plot of Love, Simon is beautifully simple, and the actors are able to really bring the story to life. This is definitely a must-see for any LGBTQ+ film lovers.
Here are 3 reasons why you – yes, YOU – should watch Love, Simon.
It’s Funny
Like most people, I spent Valentine’s Day alone, at home. It’s safe to say that Covid-19 means we haven’t really been ‘feeling the love’ this year, but Love, Simon can change that. It’s a comedy, and is bound to get a few laughs out of you: perfectly placed characters provide some hilariously delivered one-liners (including, “Suraj, stop pretending that trumpet is your penis. It’s a rental”). Also, it’s light-hearted, so if you’re recovering from a break-up it’s the perfect film to remind you that love is real and amazing. Plus, who doesn’t love an impromptu dance scene!
The Cast
Nick Robinson, who plays the main character Simon, is simply superb. He encapsulates what it feels like to be a closeted gay teen in high school, and perfectly expresses every emotion, whether it’s joy, fear, awkwardness or anger. Sometimes I felt that Simon would hold back, but seeing him react to things in unexpected ways makes him a very interesting and bold character.
Alongside Simon, we have an antagonist: Martin Addison (Logan Miller). Not only does this character have bad intentions, but he is also really awkward. Seriously, Love, Simon should come with a warning: severe second-hand embarrassment, watch at your own discretion. He’s super funny, though!
And then we come to Simon’s friend group: Leah (Katherine Langford), Abby (Alexandra Shipp) and Nick (Jorge Lendeborg Jr.). Each has their own unique, vibrant personality, and tensions rise between the four of them when Simon’s secret causes him to hurt the people he loves. Love, Simon isn’t just about the main character; everyone gets their spotlight, and the powerful friendship dynamic is striking.
It’s Real
Love, Simon is as real as it gets. As well as Robinson’s spot-on characterisation, the film breaks boundaries: for once, homosexuality is not sexualised or fetishized, at all. It’s just an innocent, delightful love story. Thank you, Hollywood!
Plus, this film fearlessly deals with homophobia and coming out. There are scenes that show the intolerance that, sadly, still occurs in the 21st century, so it’s not like this film censors the true gay experience. Also, Love, Simon manages to capture the true nature of being a teenager – it’s messy, full of unrequited love and familial challenges, and no single character is ‘perfect’. I think that’s brave, and part of why I love it so much.
I could go on and on about why this film is so great – the diversity; the soundtrack; the uplifting cinematography with its simple colour scheme and editing; the portrayal of relationships – but I think you get the gist.
So, in summary: this is a romance with a twist, and great viewing for a cosy evening with a partner or a friend. When you realise why it’s called Love, Simon, trust me, you’ll shed a tear.
Love, Simon is currently available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime.