-Written by Michelle Vorob.
2024 ONE FLUID NIGHT LGBTQIA+ FILM FESTIVAL REVIEW!
Sunflower is a heartfelt and powerful coming-of-age film by Gabriel Carrubba, which also happens to be a “coming out” film.
Let me start by saying that aside from the fact that our main and focal characters seemed older than the high schoolers they portrayed, it did not detract from the absolutely natural, spot-on acting and dialogue. I felt this movie in my soul, specifically because it was a page out of real life. Every interaction was authentic. Because of this, I found it to be utterly relatable, despite the fact that Carrubba's story follows the “outing” of seventeen year old Leo (Liam Mollica), in a Melbourne suburb.
The fact that Carrubba's coming-of-age film is also a “coming out” film, makes it that much more poignant and powerful. While LGBTQIA+ viewers can personally identify with Leo as he struggles to come to terms with his sexuality, I think anyone who watches Sunflower can see themselves in Leo, as someone who is struggling to find themselves as they mature, and how difficult it can be to connect with family and friends when we feel like an outsider. Additionally, because it is a “coming out” story, we see the added stress and danger that many young LGBTQIA+ people face [and why some still choose to stay closeted].
At first, I wasn't sure I would like Sunflower. Similar to another coming-of-age film I saw about a young gay man, the tone of some of the sexual content was a bit off-putting to me, however, there was a turning point where I became completely engrossed and invested in Leo's story. Everything shown, up to that point, despite my discomfort, was purposeful. The sexual content after that point seems “healthy,” comfortable. It moves Leo and the viewers toward acceptance.
Leo is a typical teen, spending time with friends and attempting a social life. He spends most of his time with his best friend, Boof (Luke J. Morgan), but there's clearly something else there. The relationship has an uncomfortable dynamic, which obviously unfolds as Sunflower progresses. Leo also begins hanging out with Monique (Olivia Fildes), in an effort to have a “normal” romance and be a regular guy. Leo has a family he isn't sure will be supportive of him if he comes out and while not explored beyond the minimal interaction we see, I perceived Leo's dad, Frank (Sal Galofaro) to be a bit abusive.
Now, normally, I give a lot of detail about the films I review, however, I'm not sure it will resonate the same for you, if I do that in this instance. Some of what made Sunflower so powerful was an unexpected betrayal, as well as an unexpected acceptance. Interestingly, as far as impact goes, my opinion is that Sunflower would still have been as effective had the ending been left “unanswered”, however, the definitive end doesn't detract from Sunflower. Give this a watch when you have the opportunity.
Written and Directed by Gabriel Carrubba
Starring Liam Mollica, Luke J. Morgan, Olivia Fildes, Daniel Halmarick, Diana Ferreira, Sal Galofaro, Mia Barrett, Nelson Blattman, Jacob Pontil-Scala, etc.
8/10 = WORTH RENTING OR BUYING
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