Teenage flicks come and go, and with the popularity of Young Adult novels, film adaptations have sprung left and right, from The Fault in Our Stars to the Divergent series. However, let us make a case for Love, Simon, based on the book Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli. Yes it is both a coming-of-age and coming out film, but this is not your ordinary YA popcorn flick.
Coming Out
In the age of gender fluidity, it’s still puzzling that many are still clueless regarding gender, sexual preference and gender politics, among other things. Love, Simon is a step forward for mainstream studios, focusing on a gay coming-of-age story that accurately portrays youth dynamics in a tech-driven world. The film, among its many important and heartfelt messages, tells us that coming out is never anyone’s decision but your own.
Pop Culture References
From Harry Potter, to Requiem for a Dream, to 13 Going on 30, take your pick of pop culture references. For fans of 13 Reasons Why, Katherine Langford, who played Hannah Baker in that series is also here, as Simon’s bestfriend Leah. In several scenes, the students are rehearsing the musical Cabaret, which is set in Nazi Germany (Hitler hated homosexuals). Also, since we’ve already brought up 13 Going on 30, it’s no accident that Simon’s mom is played by…
Jennifer Garner
Jokes aside, this movie will make you wanna hug your parents. They really ARE doing the best that they can. <3
#LoveSimonPH is NOW SHOWING! Don’t miss it.
Posted by 20th Century Fox on Wednesday, May 9, 2018
We’ve loved Jennifer Garner since her Alias days, and as she has now been doing mostly mother roles ( Miracles from Heaven and now this film), we still hold our breath everytime she appears onscreen. Garner delivers a line with such empathy that whenever she cries, you cry with her.
Kickass Soundtrack
Love, Simon has a collection of tunes guaranteed to make your heart skip a beat: Whether you like The 1975 (“Love Me”), Bleachers (“Rollercoaster,” “Wild Heart,” “Keeping a Secret” and “Alfie’s Song”) or Troye Sivan (“Strawberries & Cigarettes”), or perhaps all of them, chances are you’ll be humming endlessly after the film.
Lovable, Well-rounded Characters
One of the striking characteristics of Love, Simon is that the four bestfriends, Simon (Nick Robinson), Leah (Katherine Langford), Abby (Alexandra Shipp) and Nick (Jorge Lendeborg Jr.) all have distinct personalities, as well as individual struggles and goals that by the time the movie ends, it feels like we’ve known these characters all our lives. An array of supporting characters are also memorable, from Simon’s family to the blackmailing douche who will never be invited to another party. And yes, we want Simon’s theater arts teacher to be our teacher!
Rollercoaster of Emotions
From our ❤ to yours. Sneak previews of #LoveSimonPH is happening on April 30 & May 1!
Posted by 20th Century Fox on Saturday, April 21, 2018
There’s a rollercoaster scene in the film (we’re actually talking about a real rollercoaster here, people) which is an exact metaphor of what you’ll feel after the credits roll. There’s the rush of excitement, the thrill of the chase, the giggling feeling of first love, the numerous pains borne out of fear and intolerance, and yes, empathy. (We’re not going to spoil anything for you, sorry!)
A Mirror of Society
Why is straight the default? Time to hit the reset button.
#LoveSimonPH is NOW SHOWING!
Posted by 20th Century Fox on Thursday, May 10, 2018
The world that exists in Love, Simon is actually a microcosm of present society, where people are classified based on their decisions. You might find yourselves searching for your character in the film, and ask the question “what would I have done?”
Life Affirmation
Love, Simon is exactly the feel-good film we all need in these troubled times. You bring your barkada, follow Simon’s journey of self-discovery, and maybe get your faith in humanity restored. People have different tastes when it comes to movies, but Love, Simon, a film with such universal appeal, ought to be an exception. We just don’t see anyone walking in the cinema and walking out not feeling brand new afterwards. Also, everyone deserves a great love story.
What’s your take on the movie? Tell us your thoughts below!
