It Felt Like Love

(2013)

It Felt Like Love is a coming-of-age independent drama directed by Eliza Hittman. The film revolves around a 14-year-old girl named Lila, who desires to be as sexually experienced as her best friend. Desperate to explore her own sexuality, Lila becomes infatuated with a older guy named Sammy, known for his promiscuous behavior.

Lila's fixation on Sammy leads her to make impulsive decisions in an attempt to insert herself into his world, even if it puts her in vulnerable situations. As she navigates her way through the confusing and treacherous landscape of teenage sexuality, Lila faces numerous challenges and dangers.

The film explores themes of self-discovery, peer pressure, and the blurred boundaries between innocence and maturity. It approaches these sensitive subjects with a raw and unflinching honesty, capturing the vulnerabilities and desires of young people struggling to understand their own identities.

It Felt Like Love stands out with its gritty and realistic portrayal of adolescence, eschewing clichés and glamorization. Eliza Hittman's directorial style immerses viewers in Lila's emotional journey, making them feel the intensity and confusion of her experiences.

This thought-provoking and emotionally charged film serves as a poignant reflection on the difficulties and complexities of growing up, ultimately leaving viewers with a lingering sense of empathy and compassion for the characters.