Love, Simon

Love, Simon wants to be a heartfelt teen romantic comedy, and in many ways, it succeeds. However, it often plays it safe and leans on familiar tropes that hinder its potential.

A Coming-Out Story

Simon Spier is a 17-year-old boy navigating the complexities of high school life while hiding a significant part of himself: he hasn't come out as gay to his friends and family. The plot thickens when he begins an anonymous online relationship with a classmate known only as 'Blue.' As Simon tries to uncover Blue's identity, he also grapples with the pressures of his own coming out journey, friendships, and the looming fear of rejection. The film blends romance and comedy while addressing the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ teens in a society that can be less than accepting.

Performances That Get the Job Done

Nick Robinson delivers a relatable performance as Simon, embodying the character’s internal conflict with a mix of charm and vulnerability. The supporting cast, including Jennifer Garner and Josh Duhamel, bring warmth as his well-meaning parents, though their roles sometimes feel underdeveloped. Katherine Langford as Leah and Alexandra Shipp as Abby shine in their moments but could have used more depth. Logan Miller’s portrayal of Martin adds comedic relief, though at times he leans too heavily into annoying antics that detract from Simon's story.

Standard Teen Movie Aesthetics

Greg Berlanti directs with a light touch, balancing humor and emotion, but the visual approach feels standard for teen films. The cinematography lacks distinction, relying on bright colors and typical high school settings that don’t contribute much to the emotional weight of the story. The pacing also suffers in parts; certain scenes drag on, while others rush through potentially impactful moments. A more creative visual style could have complemented the narrative, making it feel less like a formulaic teen flick.

Sweet but Predictable

Watching Love, Simon can be a bittersweet experience. It certainly has its touching moments that resonate, especially for those familiar with the challenges of coming out. However, parts of the film feel predictable and overly sweet, leading to moments where the emotional beats seem manufactured rather than genuine. The predictable nature of the plot can cause frustration; after a while, the stakes feel low, and the film struggles to maintain tension. It’s enjoyable, but it sometimes feels like a missed opportunity to dive deeper into its themes.