In all fairness, it starts off rather limp and - if truth be told - a little annoying...especially that 'Dell' character! Teenage boys...yuck!
But...be patient, the film takes an upward surge with the singing garden hose-pipe! And, Dell's character becomes increasingly more adorable - by the end, you just want to tweek his sweet little cheeks!
Obviously, comparisons will be made with Love, Simon - similar looking [gay] teenage boys looking for love and/or sex - however, Simon proclaimed his gayness in the opening minute...Alex, on the otherhand, is either in some kind of surreal denial...or, he hasn't got a clue. It's more likely he hasn't got a clue...being a straight 'A' student, with a steady girlfriend and somewhat awkward...his 'clue' comes in the form of a rather picturesque Elliot...a boy who could turn quite a few heads and hearts, regardless of sexuality!
This 'clue' gestates over the majority of the film...as the main focus is on the relationship between Alex and his [adorable] girlfriend...and, with increasingly difficultly and tension, the losing of his virginity...the 'clue' moves to his pants, the little man ain't working like he should do!
But, Alex is unable to put one and one together...and, toys with the idea that he might be bisexual - heavens above, sounds familiar, doesn't it? The bisexual stepping-stone to full-blown homosexuality!
The conflict grows between the lustless young couple...for they are [great] friends with no benefits other than companionship and a few kisses. It's an emotional realisation...beckoning the arrival of a steady stream of tears.
Alex Strangelove is a lovely film, oozing with warmth and charm...and, some - surprisingly - gritty dialogue. It's unashamedly positive, delivering a message of outright acceptance. If only life were so simple and this non-judgmental...this is - indeed - a fairytale...a look at how life might be for kids coming to terms with who they are.
It will leave you tear-stained and smiling.
Aaaw!
Trailer...
