In his first feature film role, Lou Goossens delivers a captivating performance as Elias, a 14-year-old navigating life in rural Belgium. Alongside his loving family, Elias grapples with his father Luk's unexpected success as a pop star and the arrival of a new neighbor, Alexander, portrayed by Marius De Saeger. As Elias forms a bond with Alexander, he begins to confront his own feelings of attraction and confusion.
'Young Hearts' artfully portrays Elias' journey of self-discovery amidst a backdrop of acceptance but lingering heteronormativity. Director Anthony Schatteman's nuanced storytelling sheds light on the intricacies of adolescent identity formation, capturing the struggles of a young boy coming to terms with his burgeoning feelings for another boy in a society that doesn't explicitly condemn but fails to fully embrace diversity.
Schatteman's debut feature exudes a sense of quiet confidence, steering away from sensationalism to deliver a poignant and authentic narrative. While drawing inevitable comparisons to other Belgian dramas, 'Young Hearts' stands out for its understated emotional depth and genuine portrayal of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth.
Through subtle performances and a thoughtful approach to storytelling, 'Young Hearts' marks the promising beginning of Anthony Schatteman's career in feature filmmaking. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of creating inclusive environments where individuals can freely explore and embrace their true identities, making it a valuable addition to the canon of coming-of-age cinema.
