While this movie have some nice performances from the young cast, it tried to do too many things; and thus didn't address any issue particularly well. The write-up for the film describes Mateo's struggle to accept that he's gay. This was only one of many plot threads. Actually, Mateo readily accepted his gayness, and his love for Daniel, telling his Mom and Grandmother he had fallen in love with a man. No struggle here.
Those around Mateo and Daniel have varying degrees of acceptance: Mateo's parents, Daniel's abusive father, some of their friends, their school's monster of a principle. Other plot threads include family struggles, student rights, school bullying, rape, and suicide.
Yes, once again a gay person must die. Mateo's sudden decision to kill himself as a political statement really rings hollow. He had no trouble accepting he was gay or telling those around him. Too many gay themed movies feel the need to kill one of their characters.
Those around Mateo and Daniel have varying degrees of acceptance: Mateo's parents, Daniel's abusive father, some of their friends, their school's monster of a principle. Other plot threads include family struggles, student rights, school bullying, rape, and suicide.
Yes, once again a gay person must die. Mateo's sudden decision to kill himself as a political statement really rings hollow. He had no trouble accepting he was gay or telling those around him. Too many gay themed movies feel the need to kill one of their characters.