Review of The Way He Looks (2014) by Andrei C — 10 Oct 2014
Hoje Eu Quero Voltar Sozinho [Today I Want to Go Back Alone] is the Portuguese title of this poignant Brazilian film, the first feature length by talented Daniel Ribeiro who, four years later, has expanded his own 17-minute award winning short Eu Não Quero Voltar Sozinho [I Do Not Want to Go Back Alone].
For its American release, it's now titled THE WAY HE LOOKS. TWHL is the very charming and touching story of teen Leo, who is blind, and is first love, in the form of Gabriel, a new arrival at the local school, who may share similar feelings with his newfound best friend.
While the film is by no means naive, it does exude an innocence which only highlights the genuineness of this lovely film. With a spirit of romanticism THE WAY HE LOOKS is almost nostalgic by default.
The actors don't just play their roles; they embody the characters with such perfection that the film almost borders on voyeuristic. TWHL beautifully unfolds and, by the end, you feel for these boys and you'll most likely walk away with the sense to rejoice.
Certainly a crowd-pleaser and the feel good film of the year, in any language, it only makes sense why TWHL has been popular and winning prizes at festivals all around the world.
This review of The Way He Looks (2014) was written by Andrei C on 10 Oct 2014.
The Way He Looks has generally received very positive reviews.
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