(Review) Alex Strangelove

Alex Strangelove, an amazing, emotional rom-com that leaves you wanting a sequel. Let's break it down. (SPOILER WARNING)

Pros:

1. Great chemistry between Alex and Claire

This pro is a bit of a two-edged sword. Although the movie spends a lot of time on Alex and Claire's relationship, it ends up leaving not only Claire but also the audience heartbroken in the end. From the second Claire and Alex are on screen together, it's obvious that these two will be a power couple by act II. And the movie definitely delivers upon this assumption. However, when the soon-to-be gay crush Elliot first shows up it's obvious Claire is in for a rough time in the acts to come. The chemistry resonates with me not only due to the #goals nature of their relationship but also due to the bittersweet ending to the final act. The fact of the matter is, the chemistry between these two teens will leave you in tears when you realize they won't last forever.

2. Beautiful camera shots and foreshadowing

Although I am by no means a film expert, I know a good camera shot when I see one. Likewise, I know when a camera shot is foreshadowing things to come or providing insight on the current situation. For example, during the first of the two party scenes, when Alex and Elliot meet for the first time, they're lying down on the floor. Although I can't describe this shot well enough for you to understand, this camera shot and scene as a whole are well executed and provide insight into the current situation. Likewise, later during that same party Alex and Claire are together in a bathtub kissing when all of a sudden Del bursts in and pukes rainbow gummies onto Alex. Now this foreshadow wasn't quite as subtle as the one in the previous scene. None-the-less, the foreshadowing is strong with the film.

3. Pool Scene/Act III as a whole

The final act of the film is beautiful. In my opinion, act III starts as soon as Alex falls into the swimming pool. So, let's begin at that masterpiece of a scene. As Alex sits by the edge of the pool, he watches his reflection, he questions his reality, his truth, his sexuality. This is quite literally a scene of reflection for Alex. He gives up. He quits trying, and willingly falls into the pool. As he sinks down to the bottom, he reflects upon a memory from when he was at summer camp. During this reflection process, he realizes, he has always been gay. However, until recently, it was submerged under multiple feet of water. After this reflection process is over, Alex emerges from the water and admits to Claire that he's gay. In my opinion, this entire act is beautiful and perfect.

Cons:

1. Del, a charming, insensitive jerk.

Del, especially in act II, was often an insensitive jerk. Although you could argue that this is just his character, the writing tries to play it off as if he's doing the right thing. That, and I just need a con on this list, so I'm nitpicking. I really don't have much to say about this apart from the fact that I really wanted to like this character. After all, the first party scene played him off as incredibly charming and likable. However, towards the end of the movie, especially with his gay remarks, he quickly became my almost least favorite character.

2. Elliot is a dick.

Now for my least favorite character in the entire movie, Elliot. Although he was charming in the party scene as well, similar to Del he quickly became my least favorite character. Elliot, knowing Alex was devoted to his girlfriend, constantly invited Alex out to concerts, to his bedroom, and out to eat. Elliot knew what he was doing when invited Alex out to do all these things. Even down to the epilogue at prom. Alex is still a budding, barely un-closeted gay, and Elliot has the audacity to get pissed when Alex gets a bit shameful due to the attention they're getting. Simply put, Elliot is a manipulative, dick.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this is a fun, heartfelt Rom-Com that will make you laugh, cry, and yell. The acting and writing fit the tone, and most of the lead characters are likable.

Movie Rating: 8/10

Netflix Movie Rating: 10/10