A simple, minimalist movie, very different from the current productions. Instead of explosions, too much talk, chop edition, grandiloquent music, Hoje Eu Quero Voltar Sozinho show the daily lives of ordinary teenagers, revealing their questions, doubts, conflicts, always in a subtle, gentle way. With very little, Daniel Ribeiro conveys much. The film speaks to teens who identify with the characters, especially the gay teens, but goes further by advocating tolerance and relativize the desire .. The world would be better if there were more movies like this one. Hoje Eu Quero Voltar Sozinho won the fipresc prize at Berlin Film Festival. The Hollywood Repórter wrote about the fist work of Daniel Ribeiro: "A blind boy falls in love with another boy -- but it's his desire for independence that's the motor of this beautifully observed drama".
86 Reviews
A Sensitive Portrayal...
Xstal19 July 2020
A teen film with a big difference!
BeneCumb26 January 2015
I was referred to this film by a link from another film, and decided to watch it for enhancing "land diversification", plus the film was Brazil's submission to the Academy Awards. As I new nothing about the protagonist's disability, the very start did fascinate me already (how all this would go on?), and, for me, all events went smoothly on towards a smart and tasteful ending.
In spite of sensitive background and topic (at least for many), it was handled with piety, without sensationalism or platitude. The fact that a disabled person had gay feelings, was pleasantly collateral, not prevailing - we just obtain a nice view of teens' dreams vs. reality in São Paulo. As the performances (both younger and older) were skillful and realistic as well, it all just fell into place, and the result is a very good example of a film depicting youngsters should be - as versatile as their inner world and wishes. Highly recommended particularly for the younger people all over the world.
In spite of sensitive background and topic (at least for many), it was handled with piety, without sensationalism or platitude. The fact that a disabled person had gay feelings, was pleasantly collateral, not prevailing - we just obtain a nice view of teens' dreams vs. reality in São Paulo. As the performances (both younger and older) were skillful and realistic as well, it all just fell into place, and the result is a very good example of a film depicting youngsters should be - as versatile as their inner world and wishes. Highly recommended particularly for the younger people all over the world.
I am in love with this movie!
oscarscheepstra13 April 2014
This movie is amazingly good. I already had a taste of it with the short "Eu não quero voltar sozinho" and could not wait to watch the full movie. I had great expectations before even seeing the teasers or trailers... The movie is sweet, delicate and makes you feel so good! The characters are really well constructed. You can see how the actors improved and grew up. The dialogues flow naturally, and the camera works really well with the story. Although I already knew what would happen (because of the short) I was thrilled on many scenes. A really nice touch of the movie was to use small dialogues of the short. The movie makes you want to sit on the movie theatre for many hours. The music made me really happy. I was bobbing my head every time Belle And Sebastian was on, and could not hide my smile on the entire movie. The scenes are so well constructed that you forget that you are watching a movie - it has a dream-like feeling, even on the scenes where there is prejudice. Daniel Ribeiro did an amazing job, and so did the actors. I am in love with the story. This movie is for everyone who believes in love.
It pulled my heartstrings.
wintermoist17 July 2014
If you want to feel that Oh-my-God-I-am-in-love-for-the-first-time feeling, hunt down a copy of this movie and fasten up your seat belt.
There are a lot of movies out there that pertains to the burdens of gay teenagers. However, this one seriously made its way to my heart. This is nothing mainstream, not even a hint of being a novelty film. I was jumping up and down, I cried, I laughed, I felt confused--this is a bomb;a ticking time-bomb. And the only thing that makes the ticking faster is the beat of your heart.
This is a hidden gem, a must-watch for those who are tired of mainstream movies. It is like reading a book but in a multi-sensory way and what makes this film unique is the fact that you cannot simply move on. You'll always be haunted by this movie and you'll find yourself tying the strings of your heart tighter.
There are a lot of movies out there that pertains to the burdens of gay teenagers. However, this one seriously made its way to my heart. This is nothing mainstream, not even a hint of being a novelty film. I was jumping up and down, I cried, I laughed, I felt confused--this is a bomb;a ticking time-bomb. And the only thing that makes the ticking faster is the beat of your heart.
This is a hidden gem, a must-watch for those who are tired of mainstream movies. It is like reading a book but in a multi-sensory way and what makes this film unique is the fact that you cannot simply move on. You'll always be haunted by this movie and you'll find yourself tying the strings of your heart tighter.
Excellent!
johnnyrodriguesfelipe22 April 2014
I don't know how to put into words how I enjoyed this movie. It was so awesome to see these brand-new actors interpreting such lovely characters and being part of such an unique experience! The movie is not only about homosexuality, but also about the character's trial to get more independent. All the scenes were very well-written and the ending was so beautiful! The chemistry between Léo (Guilherme Lobo) and Gabriel (Fábio)is perfect!
There were some scenes which I wasn't expecting at all; that only made me like the movie even more!
I cried, I yelled, I laughed...All feelings in one single movie. It's a must-watch.
There were some scenes which I wasn't expecting at all; that only made me like the movie even more!
I cried, I yelled, I laughed...All feelings in one single movie. It's a must-watch.
Exquisite and Emotionally Detailed: One of the Most Sensible Entries to the LGBT Cinema in a very Long While
prospectus_capricornium15 May 2015
Warning: Spoilers
From time to time, a coming-of-age film comes across to paint the already vivid LGBT cinema with new colors. The ones THE WAY HE LOOKS has are subtle, tender, and sweet, but bold enough to leave an indelible imprint.
Leonardo (Ghillerme Lobo) is a blind teenager coping up with the changes brought to him by adolescence. He struggles to find independence from his overprotective parents, and he's longing for acceptance from everyone who would rather mock him for his disability. He's well adjusted with all the mess , but his equally super-protective bestfriend, Giovanna, never leaves his side. Albeit anomalous, everything happening—all those bullying, the parents who would not want to miss a single moment without their eyes on him—comes across to Leonardo as essential pains of growing up, and he recognizes the need to go through all of them. Until the handsome new boy, Gabriel (Fabio Audi) , arrives.
The movie tries to take a single road as much as it can, keeping its track straight, and all its elements in tack, throughout its route. It grows as it goes, but it never entangles itself with the complications of inserting unnecessary expositories. In what could be seen as its most complicated angle (yet easily perceptible), the movie sheds light on an unlikely love triangle. Giovanna has deep feelings for Leonardo, and she keeps sending hints of her admiration to him, but he couldn't quite decipher them. But Leonardo is in love with Gabriel, and she also finds the new guy attractive. This strike as an immediate complication, but the characters and narrative themselves have ways to easily shrug it off.
Yet THE WAY HE LOOKS biggest concern isn't this love triangle. More to it is Leonardo's journey to manhood, his escape from the confines of the world he lives in. This mirrors a universal subject that speaks for all ages, and this is where the movie is most piercingly capable. The movie's tone complements the easygoing nature of Leonardo, and the simplistic approach of the story. It doesn't feed to much on the disasters its subjects, that its conflict mainly comes from Leo's little revolts, and Giovanna's ignoring him when she feels Gabriel has already took her place in Leo's life. These maybe are small, but they affect with utmost warmth and sincerity they would send you crippling inside. In one of its sweetest moments, Gabriel introduces the music he likes to Leonardo, whose musical taste is limited only to the classicals. This gives way to a scene where Gabriel has made the often shy Leo, dance, and while Gabriel might haven't realized it, such moment awaken something inside Leo. Suddenly he is in love. This is only one of countless small moments that makes watching this movie truly emotional. All across, sprawls sheer heartwarming scenes that tug at the heartstrings, like when Gabriel took Leo in the cinema while he narrates what's happening on screen, and when he suddenly kisses Leo, when he thinks no one would let him kiss anyone.
Daniel Ribeiro, the director and writer of the film, surely knows well his subject. He has a keen eye on details and has hands to craft them into beautiful pieces of a bigger picture, resulting to a gentle yet affecting storyline. Sweet and compassionate, THE WAY HE LOOKS leaves a cathartic sense of personal liberation, making it one of the most sensible entries to its genre, in a long while. 8/10 The movie is Brazil's entry to the 87th Annual Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film.
Leonardo (Ghillerme Lobo) is a blind teenager coping up with the changes brought to him by adolescence. He struggles to find independence from his overprotective parents, and he's longing for acceptance from everyone who would rather mock him for his disability. He's well adjusted with all the mess , but his equally super-protective bestfriend, Giovanna, never leaves his side. Albeit anomalous, everything happening—all those bullying, the parents who would not want to miss a single moment without their eyes on him—comes across to Leonardo as essential pains of growing up, and he recognizes the need to go through all of them. Until the handsome new boy, Gabriel (Fabio Audi) , arrives.
The movie tries to take a single road as much as it can, keeping its track straight, and all its elements in tack, throughout its route. It grows as it goes, but it never entangles itself with the complications of inserting unnecessary expositories. In what could be seen as its most complicated angle (yet easily perceptible), the movie sheds light on an unlikely love triangle. Giovanna has deep feelings for Leonardo, and she keeps sending hints of her admiration to him, but he couldn't quite decipher them. But Leonardo is in love with Gabriel, and she also finds the new guy attractive. This strike as an immediate complication, but the characters and narrative themselves have ways to easily shrug it off.
Yet THE WAY HE LOOKS biggest concern isn't this love triangle. More to it is Leonardo's journey to manhood, his escape from the confines of the world he lives in. This mirrors a universal subject that speaks for all ages, and this is where the movie is most piercingly capable. The movie's tone complements the easygoing nature of Leonardo, and the simplistic approach of the story. It doesn't feed to much on the disasters its subjects, that its conflict mainly comes from Leo's little revolts, and Giovanna's ignoring him when she feels Gabriel has already took her place in Leo's life. These maybe are small, but they affect with utmost warmth and sincerity they would send you crippling inside. In one of its sweetest moments, Gabriel introduces the music he likes to Leonardo, whose musical taste is limited only to the classicals. This gives way to a scene where Gabriel has made the often shy Leo, dance, and while Gabriel might haven't realized it, such moment awaken something inside Leo. Suddenly he is in love. This is only one of countless small moments that makes watching this movie truly emotional. All across, sprawls sheer heartwarming scenes that tug at the heartstrings, like when Gabriel took Leo in the cinema while he narrates what's happening on screen, and when he suddenly kisses Leo, when he thinks no one would let him kiss anyone.
Daniel Ribeiro, the director and writer of the film, surely knows well his subject. He has a keen eye on details and has hands to craft them into beautiful pieces of a bigger picture, resulting to a gentle yet affecting storyline. Sweet and compassionate, THE WAY HE LOOKS leaves a cathartic sense of personal liberation, making it one of the most sensible entries to its genre, in a long while. 8/10 The movie is Brazil's entry to the 87th Annual Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film.
Heartwarming and Delightful; As Sweet and Charming as the Short it's based on.
akash_sebastian8 August 2014
When Daniel Ribeiro's sweet and charming short film 'I Don't Want to Go Back Alone' released in 2010, I was completely in love with it. I was eagerly looking forward to watching this movie since its announcement. Though I still consider the short to be simple, nuanced and better, I liked how Ribeiro beautifully adapted the short into a feature film. Of course, he kept the same talented young actors; they've grown, and have done a commendable and mature job. I liked how Ribeiro changed a few parts from the short film, but kept the essence and feel of the story intact; he incorporates the memorable dialogues and moments from the short into the feature film appropriately.
It's the story of a blind guy named Leo, his best friend Giovana, and how their lives change after the arrival of new student, Gabriel. The movie is basically about equality and sexuality. Blind, not blind, or whatever... ultimately, all we seek is love, and independence. We never choose whom we fall in love with.
Though the movie explores themes of friendship, independence, bullying, etc., overall, the movie essentially remains the same as the short; I feel, the characters and situations could have been explored further. But overall, I still like the film; it's heartwarming and delightful.
The title song used in the movie, 'There's Too Much Love' by Belle and Sebastian, is quite mesmerizing. Every time it played during the film, at appropriate moments, my heart was filled with joy. And the main kiss between Leo and Gabriel towards the end is really passionate and moving.
It's the story of a blind guy named Leo, his best friend Giovana, and how their lives change after the arrival of new student, Gabriel. The movie is basically about equality and sexuality. Blind, not blind, or whatever... ultimately, all we seek is love, and independence. We never choose whom we fall in love with.
Though the movie explores themes of friendship, independence, bullying, etc., overall, the movie essentially remains the same as the short; I feel, the characters and situations could have been explored further. But overall, I still like the film; it's heartwarming and delightful.
The title song used in the movie, 'There's Too Much Love' by Belle and Sebastian, is quite mesmerizing. Every time it played during the film, at appropriate moments, my heart was filled with joy. And the main kiss between Leo and Gabriel towards the end is really passionate and moving.
Maravilhoso! Beautiful!
henrique-zapala10 April 2014
I was extremely excited with this movie, in the launch of the movie i was there, when the movie finished I was extremely happy and stayed on the theater to watch again and now I can say that this movie is exceptional! The story isn't just about a gay romance, it's about adolescence and the discover and experiment. Guilherme Lobo it's incredible in this role, Fabio Audi do a Gabriel that oscillates in the innocence and in the desire of finding himself, Tess Amorim is wonderful she isn't in the couple, but she's important and big part of her role is passed trough her faces. The direction and photography are flawless, the soundtrack is phenomenal. The movie is very "go with the flow", the both times that I watched passed very fast, because the movie unfolds in such a great way that you can't notice how fast the movie ends. The Way He Looks is a great movie! If you like gay themed movies or adolescent movies, this is a must-see and if you watch you will see how beautiful this movie is and will fall in love by this movie like I did.
Fun, lighthearted fare
BullMooseWV10 June 2015
The movie was cute and well-acted. It reminds me of the After-School Specials on TV we used to have here in the States, in that it was lighthearted with some great acting and touching upon difficult subjects effectively without going overboard. I wish we would have had movies such as this when I was growing up. It would have helped a lot. Hopefully, it helps some young folks was they deal with a difficult time.
I also thought of the British movie "Beautiful Thing" when I was watching this. That also dealt with teenage boys dealing with same-sex attraction as they deal with the already-tortuous teenage years.
The direction was decent, perhaps just a bit uneven at times.
I also thought of the British movie "Beautiful Thing" when I was watching this. That also dealt with teenage boys dealing with same-sex attraction as they deal with the already-tortuous teenage years.
The direction was decent, perhaps just a bit uneven at times.
Heartwarming, entertaining, poignant and relevant
ideduceyou29 July 2014
First of all I feel like this is a must see movie, because although It's simple and nice but It's very sweet, relatable and bigger than the sum of its parts. This movie is most of all about being a teenager. Yes the main character is gay and blind, but he's only going through the process every teenager goes through in discovering himself. His unique perspective however is what makes this movie so amazing and moving. I loved this movie because it reminded me of what being a teenager is like, It will provoke in you a roller coaster of feelings and introduce you very realistically into Leo's life. The film feels very real, the cast is amazing and the chemistry between the leads is perfect, but what I liked most of all is the way the fact that the lead is gay and has a disability is handled. It's almost incidental and very subtle in the way it's introduced. Leo is not a poster kid and neither his sexuality nor his blindness define him.
Adolescent Vision
ferguson-616 November 2014
Greetings again from the darkness. This is Brazil's official entry for the 2015 Academy Awards, and it's the feature film debut of writer/director Daniel Ribeiro. With some similarities to Truffaut's Jules and Jim (1962), it's a coming-of-age story focused on the adolescent desire for independence, and the awkwardness and curiosity associated with first love.
As the film opens, we meet best friends Leonardo (Ghiherme Lobo) and Giovani (Tess Amorim) as they lazily chat while hanging out by the swimming pool. Their innocent discussion about romance and a first kiss bring to light the naivety of their age and situation. Giovani carries a torch for Leo, but he is clueless to her desire. His blindness since birth is a major reason, but the arrival of new student Gabriel (Fabio Audi) slowly uncovers another obstacle to any future romantic link for Gi and Leo.
To his credit, Mr. Ribeiro never emphasizes Leonardo's handicap and instead allows the three teenagers to struggle through daily existence riding the roller coaster of emotions so typical for the age. Sure, Leo gets bullied a bit at school by the insensitive jerks we all know so well, but he struggles more with his overprotective mother who has yet to come to grips with her son's maturity and desire for the next level of independence. The real core of the story involves the fine line between fragility and strength of friendship, as well as the realization of one's sexuality. These issues are handled expertly and without sermon or grandstanding.
The film has been exceptionally well received at LGBT Film Festivals, and has crossover appeal for those interested in a grounded look at the basic challenges of adolescence.
As the film opens, we meet best friends Leonardo (Ghiherme Lobo) and Giovani (Tess Amorim) as they lazily chat while hanging out by the swimming pool. Their innocent discussion about romance and a first kiss bring to light the naivety of their age and situation. Giovani carries a torch for Leo, but he is clueless to her desire. His blindness since birth is a major reason, but the arrival of new student Gabriel (Fabio Audi) slowly uncovers another obstacle to any future romantic link for Gi and Leo.
To his credit, Mr. Ribeiro never emphasizes Leonardo's handicap and instead allows the three teenagers to struggle through daily existence riding the roller coaster of emotions so typical for the age. Sure, Leo gets bullied a bit at school by the insensitive jerks we all know so well, but he struggles more with his overprotective mother who has yet to come to grips with her son's maturity and desire for the next level of independence. The real core of the story involves the fine line between fragility and strength of friendship, as well as the realization of one's sexuality. These issues are handled expertly and without sermon or grandstanding.
The film has been exceptionally well received at LGBT Film Festivals, and has crossover appeal for those interested in a grounded look at the basic challenges of adolescence.
Simple, but very effective
Red_Identity25 November 2014
I remember watching the short film this was based on, and loved it. Upon finding out that a feature film was made, I was dying to see it. As it is, this is pretty similar, although the arc development occurs more gradually and slower of course. The two leads' chemistry is as palpable as it was in the short film, and they make their scenes together work. Their performances, taken on their own, are particularly effective, Lobo in particular. The story as it is isn't anything wholly original, but it doesn't need to be. All it needs to do is make us believe in it and we do. I strongly recommend this gem of a film and I really hope it's seen by more people.
Lousy 'coming of age' teen movie
eurograd26 September 2014
I had read about some accolades and awards 'The Way He Looks' has been getting in anticipation of its theatrical release in several countries. As I was suspecting, there is too much hype around the movie. It has lousy screen play, a predictable story line as in most "coming of age" teen featured movies, and really bad acting for most supporting characters.
There is nothing special or enticing about the movie, and I think most of their intended teen audience would roll eyes at how obvious and repetitive the scenes are. Disability and sexuality are brought together as a failed attempt to build an unique character, but it ends up resorting to regular teen movie staple clichés, the sort of pick-and-mix ones you can randomly thrown in together and write a lame context story around to get a light and superficial movie about light teen themes (friendship, unrequited love, mood swings, middle-class teen rebellion-lite, adults that don't get the teen world etc.)
Actually, you can find most teen movie stock characters in this film. Mean evil girl chasing after boys? Check. Popular-but-deeply-insecure alpha male student? Check. Misfit goof-ball? Check. Cool kids that supply alcohol? Check. Uni-dimensional parents at odds with each other? Check.
The issues (sexuality, disability) that would make 'The Way He Looks' a shocking and/or groundbreaking movie don't work that way; if writer and director Daniel Ribeiro intended so, he is probably a decade too late.
I honestly don't understand why this movie is so hyped, I think it deserves not much of it. Therefore, I give it a vote score of 4/10 and not a single half-point more.
There is nothing special or enticing about the movie, and I think most of their intended teen audience would roll eyes at how obvious and repetitive the scenes are. Disability and sexuality are brought together as a failed attempt to build an unique character, but it ends up resorting to regular teen movie staple clichés, the sort of pick-and-mix ones you can randomly thrown in together and write a lame context story around to get a light and superficial movie about light teen themes (friendship, unrequited love, mood swings, middle-class teen rebellion-lite, adults that don't get the teen world etc.)
Actually, you can find most teen movie stock characters in this film. Mean evil girl chasing after boys? Check. Popular-but-deeply-insecure alpha male student? Check. Misfit goof-ball? Check. Cool kids that supply alcohol? Check. Uni-dimensional parents at odds with each other? Check.
The issues (sexuality, disability) that would make 'The Way He Looks' a shocking and/or groundbreaking movie don't work that way; if writer and director Daniel Ribeiro intended so, he is probably a decade too late.
I honestly don't understand why this movie is so hyped, I think it deserves not much of it. Therefore, I give it a vote score of 4/10 and not a single half-point more.
Excellent
avecat818 September 2014
I don't full on love a lot of movies, but oh boy, this movie is perfect. It was hilarious, light-hearted, fun, and romantic all in one! I would definitely recommend this movie to anyone who wants their heart warmed a little bit. You'll fall in love with the characters, and basically everything about this movie. It hasn't been done before, which is great! An absolute 10! If you haven't already seen the short film that this movie is based off of, you might want to. It's very good, but the movie is a bit better. It basically takes the short film, ages it a bit, and stretches it out. It adds more characters, more elements to the plot, and basically just shapes it. The short film had a few gaps and holes that the movie fixed perfectly. This is literally my favorite movie, it's so good. The actors are also very talented, it was a very good casting choice. I never guessed I'd fall so deeply in love with a foreign movie, but I'm so glad I did! <33
Like the Short Film, This Movie Is Beyond Stunning
tomhashes28 May 2015
First off, let me just say this: if you haven't watched the movie yet, I strongly recommend you not to watch the short film first. I found that watching the short film first ruined my watching experience of this movie.
I actually forgot how I stumbled upon this movie; I think the movie trailer was auto-played by the Youtube player. Anyway, it is indeed a great film, and I was so happy to have come across this movie by accident.
To be frank, one of the reasons I was keen on watching this film is because of its high rating. It's just a few marks below one of my absolute favorites, Weekend (2011), which stimulated me to watch this film.
Basically, this movie is an elaborated version of the short film. The two films more or less have the same plot. I always think it's hard to turn an outstanding short film into an outstanding 90-minute movie. This one definitely did not disappoint me. When I was watching the movie, I was thinking why it could get such a high rating. Well, the reason is really simple: it is genuine. None of the dialogues is misplaced; the emotions are heartfelt; and the cinematography is indeed splendid. The actors made the plot believable too: Gabriel (Audi) and Leo (Lobo) were great actors; they conveyed the emotions smoothly. I was surprised to know Audi's real age and Lobo's normal eyesight. I guess that is evidence that they really carried the story well.
There are one or two scenes which can be considered slightly explicit, but they don't exist just for the visual stimulation. They carry weight, reveal characters' inner-feelings, and move the plot forward. You know, some films include explicit sex scenes which indeed provide pleasure for the viewers, but this movie is not one of them.
I also loved how the plot is so simple yet heartwarming. Like some reviewers have pointed out, this movie does remind you of what first love feels like, especially for gay teenagers. The confusing emotions and the hesitation of whether to trust your feelings are revealed splendidly in this movie. Also, the fact that the film involves a blind character adds a twist to the movie. The plot is indeed a wonderful one, but after watching the movie, I can only wonder whether a blind, gay teenager falling in love with a new student who also happens to be gay is plausible. I'm not saying that the fairytale ending is implausible, but the way that the movie is packaged as "a beautiful youth story" took away a tiny bit of my love for this movie. Hence why it's a 8/10, not 9. Nonetheless, in this world where gay stories almost never have happy endings, I will gratefully take this movie.
One more point to add: I don't know if critics have noticed, but clothing have become a recurrent theme in gay film and literature. Like Jack's bloodstained shirt in Brokeback Mountain (2005) and Oliver's "Billowy" shirt in André Aciman's novel "Call Me By Your Name" (2007), Gabriel's jacket has become one more item to be included in the recurrent theme of "clothing" in gay film and literature. The meaning of clothes is not just on physical but also metaphorical level, and in this film, Leo's yearning for Gabriel is best revealed by how he treated Gabriel's jacket.
Let's just put it this way: if you haven't seen the movie, you need to watch it as soon as possible.
I actually forgot how I stumbled upon this movie; I think the movie trailer was auto-played by the Youtube player. Anyway, it is indeed a great film, and I was so happy to have come across this movie by accident.
To be frank, one of the reasons I was keen on watching this film is because of its high rating. It's just a few marks below one of my absolute favorites, Weekend (2011), which stimulated me to watch this film.
Basically, this movie is an elaborated version of the short film. The two films more or less have the same plot. I always think it's hard to turn an outstanding short film into an outstanding 90-minute movie. This one definitely did not disappoint me. When I was watching the movie, I was thinking why it could get such a high rating. Well, the reason is really simple: it is genuine. None of the dialogues is misplaced; the emotions are heartfelt; and the cinematography is indeed splendid. The actors made the plot believable too: Gabriel (Audi) and Leo (Lobo) were great actors; they conveyed the emotions smoothly. I was surprised to know Audi's real age and Lobo's normal eyesight. I guess that is evidence that they really carried the story well.
There are one or two scenes which can be considered slightly explicit, but they don't exist just for the visual stimulation. They carry weight, reveal characters' inner-feelings, and move the plot forward. You know, some films include explicit sex scenes which indeed provide pleasure for the viewers, but this movie is not one of them.
I also loved how the plot is so simple yet heartwarming. Like some reviewers have pointed out, this movie does remind you of what first love feels like, especially for gay teenagers. The confusing emotions and the hesitation of whether to trust your feelings are revealed splendidly in this movie. Also, the fact that the film involves a blind character adds a twist to the movie. The plot is indeed a wonderful one, but after watching the movie, I can only wonder whether a blind, gay teenager falling in love with a new student who also happens to be gay is plausible. I'm not saying that the fairytale ending is implausible, but the way that the movie is packaged as "a beautiful youth story" took away a tiny bit of my love for this movie. Hence why it's a 8/10, not 9. Nonetheless, in this world where gay stories almost never have happy endings, I will gratefully take this movie.
One more point to add: I don't know if critics have noticed, but clothing have become a recurrent theme in gay film and literature. Like Jack's bloodstained shirt in Brokeback Mountain (2005) and Oliver's "Billowy" shirt in André Aciman's novel "Call Me By Your Name" (2007), Gabriel's jacket has become one more item to be included in the recurrent theme of "clothing" in gay film and literature. The meaning of clothes is not just on physical but also metaphorical level, and in this film, Leo's yearning for Gabriel is best revealed by how he treated Gabriel's jacket.
Let's just put it this way: if you haven't seen the movie, you need to watch it as soon as possible.
stunning
mecphilou2 January 2015
i didn't expect much when i picked up this movie at the store, usually i watch a movie in 2 or 3 times .... this one kept me going on and on till the end....surprisingly i didn't really know how it would end, even though i understand some other people might say it is quite predictable, but the way it is all brought in and the pace of it is just incredible and perfect....
it is not a gay movie, it is a movie about love in all forms .... obviously the fact that the main character is blind ads to the story, but not really .... it was way too short .... could think of a second or third one
it is not a gay movie, it is a movie about love in all forms .... obviously the fact that the main character is blind ads to the story, but not really .... it was way too short .... could think of a second or third one
Love at first sight.
CharlieGreenCG23 October 2014
The Way He Looks, created by Brazilian writer and director Daniel Ribero attempts to tackle the innocence of adolescence and the clichéd 'coming-of-age' story. The only difference to former films, and the irony of the title is that the central character, Leonardo (Guillherme Lobo) is blind.
Struggling to find his independence, frustrated and embarrassed by his situation, he just wants to be normal and control his own life. His best-friend, Giovanna (Test Amorim), taunted with the name 'human walking-stick' is his assistant in getting him to and from school.
That is until Gabriel (Fabio Audi), a new boy at their school joins. Everything about it was love at first sight for Leonardo and him, expect literally. Soon, as he befriends them and friendship and jealousy triangle intensifies as does the relationship between them into homosexuality.
Beautifully crafted, The Way He Looks in terms of narrative blossoms organically, not pushed but sensitive and gentle. Based on the directors own previous short-film, and with the same actors on returning, the feature is filled with more story and emotional curating it into a mesmerizing and minimalist independent gem.
Struggling to find his independence, frustrated and embarrassed by his situation, he just wants to be normal and control his own life. His best-friend, Giovanna (Test Amorim), taunted with the name 'human walking-stick' is his assistant in getting him to and from school.
That is until Gabriel (Fabio Audi), a new boy at their school joins. Everything about it was love at first sight for Leonardo and him, expect literally. Soon, as he befriends them and friendship and jealousy triangle intensifies as does the relationship between them into homosexuality.
Beautifully crafted, The Way He Looks in terms of narrative blossoms organically, not pushed but sensitive and gentle. Based on the directors own previous short-film, and with the same actors on returning, the feature is filled with more story and emotional curating it into a mesmerizing and minimalist independent gem.
Teen sex at its best!
JohnDeSando30 November 2014
"We have to say the things we feel. We can't keep it inside." Gabriel (Fabio Audi)
The Way He looks is set in Sao Paulo but could be in San Diego for the universal experiences of teens, especially soon-to-be gays. Fabio and Leonardo have a fine friendship, which they share with Giovana (Tess Amorim), who was Leo's friend first (an echo of Truffaut).
The film takes a delicate subject, the emerging homosexuality of the two males, juxtaposes it against Gio's love for Leo, and slowly evolves to a sweet reconciliation of desires and loves. I'll guess Latino filmmakers are more adept at these delicate balances, or at least it seems, as American films attack teen romance with bows and arrows and bullies bigger that NFL half backs.
Although Leo experiences the vagaries of being blind, an obvious metaphor for his emerging sexual orientation, the film doesn't cash in on the schoolyard clichés, bullies and all. Even the explicit but lovely shower scene, in which Gabriel is able to survey Leo's body, carries little threat of repercussions.
His home experience is benign except for overly protective parents and the classroom experience a minor irritation, no Blackboard Jungle that.
In other words, life is hectic for these kids in an almost ideal world, where violence is minor and love can find a home. This way, Leo can like the way Gabriel looks and not suffer for it.
The Way He looks is set in Sao Paulo but could be in San Diego for the universal experiences of teens, especially soon-to-be gays. Fabio and Leonardo have a fine friendship, which they share with Giovana (Tess Amorim), who was Leo's friend first (an echo of Truffaut).
The film takes a delicate subject, the emerging homosexuality of the two males, juxtaposes it against Gio's love for Leo, and slowly evolves to a sweet reconciliation of desires and loves. I'll guess Latino filmmakers are more adept at these delicate balances, or at least it seems, as American films attack teen romance with bows and arrows and bullies bigger that NFL half backs.
Although Leo experiences the vagaries of being blind, an obvious metaphor for his emerging sexual orientation, the film doesn't cash in on the schoolyard clichés, bullies and all. Even the explicit but lovely shower scene, in which Gabriel is able to survey Leo's body, carries little threat of repercussions.
His home experience is benign except for overly protective parents and the classroom experience a minor irritation, no Blackboard Jungle that.
In other words, life is hectic for these kids in an almost ideal world, where violence is minor and love can find a home. This way, Leo can like the way Gabriel looks and not suffer for it.
Subtle and tactile romance
stroggos19 March 2017
Leo and his best friend Giovana's life changes drastically as a new boy, Gabriel, joins their school. Leo and Gio's friendship is being tested as the two boys fall into love with each other. Throughout all of this, Leo struggles to find acceptance and independence in his life despite his overprotective parents who are all-too-worried about him being blind.
THE WAY HE LOOKS is a subtle romance story between two school boys. It deals with the topic of homosexuality without becoming a trite coming-out flick. The characters seem real and believable. The romance is subtle, not tacky and clichéd like in so many other gay love stories. And Leo's blindness makes everything feel all the more tactile and physical. Kudos to actor Ghilherme Lobo for giving a very believable impression of a blind person.
The editing and cinematography is on point. There's not much music here, but the music that is there is well placed. The most striking thing about THE WAY HE LOOKS is the strong cast that makes this feel-good romance stand out.
THE WAY HE LOOKS is a subtle romance story between two school boys. It deals with the topic of homosexuality without becoming a trite coming-out flick. The characters seem real and believable. The romance is subtle, not tacky and clichéd like in so many other gay love stories. And Leo's blindness makes everything feel all the more tactile and physical. Kudos to actor Ghilherme Lobo for giving a very believable impression of a blind person.
The editing and cinematography is on point. There's not much music here, but the music that is there is well placed. The most striking thing about THE WAY HE LOOKS is the strong cast that makes this feel-good romance stand out.
Makes You Believe that Love is Sweeter than Bitter!
irwanjuanda_ndson28 December 2014
I believe that this movie serves a deeper purpose rather than only to "entertain" the audience. It leaves warmth in my heart, and especially to the LGBT people, I believe this will bring hope that relationships can be sweet and lovely rather than dark, desperate, burdensome, or sad-ending as usually shown in other LGBT's movies. Simply put, it'll make you fall in love, or make you want to fall in love again, or love to fall in love again. :)
I'm giving this movie 10 because it resonates to me deeply, another reason is because the portrayed relationships between the characters (even with the 'supposedly' antagonists) are feel-able and enjoyable. I'm liking every character in the movie.
The elements put in the movie are lovely, especially (for me) the typewriter. I believe this movie has actually became a timeless classic itself, with the issue of a blind boy's changing life after the arrival a new friend named Gabriel.
The idea of the plot and storyline is nice, and supported by an incredibly sweet execution. This movie is definitely one of my favorites since the first time I saw it. Another salute for Daniel Ribeiro.
P.s. I think the native language (Portuguese) brings better atmosphere in the movie, I'm starting to love this language too.
Muito obrigado!!!
I'm giving this movie 10 because it resonates to me deeply, another reason is because the portrayed relationships between the characters (even with the 'supposedly' antagonists) are feel-able and enjoyable. I'm liking every character in the movie.
The elements put in the movie are lovely, especially (for me) the typewriter. I believe this movie has actually became a timeless classic itself, with the issue of a blind boy's changing life after the arrival a new friend named Gabriel.
The idea of the plot and storyline is nice, and supported by an incredibly sweet execution. This movie is definitely one of my favorites since the first time I saw it. Another salute for Daniel Ribeiro.
P.s. I think the native language (Portuguese) brings better atmosphere in the movie, I'm starting to love this language too.
Muito obrigado!!!
delightful
jessbir-2361825 July 2019
The way he looks might be the best foreign LGBT movie ever and trust me I have seen many. watching these two boys fall in love is just so cute and endearing. the acting is fantastic and the story both captivating and romantic. there are so many scenes in the movie that just make me smile from ear to ear and the movie just makes you feel good. this movie is simply delightful and if you love LGBT movies go watch this one right away I promise you will love it.
Took My Breath Away
ty_lattimore200724 October 2015
This film is the film I wish a 16 year old me had seen. The movie is a love story full of hope and romance. The direction is superb! You will find yourself riding the roller coaster of emotions. The innocence and rawness of the film makes you remember your first kiss and first time falling in love. Ghilherme Lobo's emotions as Leonardo showcases his skill. He is a really good actor. Daniel Ribeiro has made one of the best young love stories on film that I have ever seen. I am glad I ran across this film. I think it is universal in emotion and feeling. Even made me check out the short film that Daniel Ribeiro originally made. It is pretty good as well.
Nice movie
botelho_as11 April 2014
The filmmaker Daniel Ribeiro back to work revisiting his famous and award winning short I do not want Back Alone . So certain that given the short rendered long The Way He looks , which is nothing more than a deepening in this universe , organized around the most important passages of the first film . The production tells the story of a blind teenager, Leonardo , played by the great Guilherme Lobo, who lives a special quest for autonomy in the face of their condition of dependency on others for help , and discovers their sexuality within a triangle that involves their best friend Giovana ( Tess Amorim ) and rookie Gabriel ( Fabio Audi ). The Way... is even worth for its history ,which in addition to respect , is very well told. Jumps out the safety director before the option for composing realistically a common teenage life. There is an objective use of language in general filming with more open plans , and except in intimate moments. Still complete the panel a naturalistic photography and soundtrack -faced musical discoveries of adolescence. Going back to being a touching script , we see that Daniel Ribeiro search to identify its viewer with the common experiences of adolescence , which makes his work a fun treat for those who have already passed through the stage , and a revealing and invaluable dialog to anyone is still in it. There is an aura of the film I saw in my childhood around this film, this sincerity to tell stories teens is impossible not to be recognized and transported me to that passage eighties to the nineties. And then we were reflecting on the evolution of cinema and our society because this film sexual discoveries are tamped on homosexual development . Daniel 's approach carries a delicious ingenuity , brings lightness and - again - naturally for the history of the two boys . Several scenes were re-shot short and placed in a new context , there at the beginning of the text already talked about the deepening of the universe . And what does that mean ? Means there is more time to unravel the elements of the rites of passage from adolescence , confusing moments of falling in love and among boys , which will gradually raising the protagonist's life . But all that occurs around those most nice situations from school days : papers presented at seminars , trips and holidays with the class , the girl which we were already flirting , or who simply appeared in front when you got drunk.
One can not make a journey through time to your own adolescence , feel captivated by overprotective parents' relationship of Leonardo , and laugh at own memories , that there are times they saw her head , and mingle with the narrative of the film .
One can not make a journey through time to your own adolescence , feel captivated by overprotective parents' relationship of Leonardo , and laugh at own memories , that there are times they saw her head , and mingle with the narrative of the film .
i am in love with this movie
hvinh26 November 2014
Just speechless. I seldomly finish the whole movie at this late of the night. It was overwhelming. Loved it! Thanks for making the movie. The actors were great! The plot was beautiful. I cried at the end from the overwhelming feelings that i had. It reminded me of my past at my teen age when i suddenly felt in love with a friend. I didn't know what to say and words became so hard to utter. He was lucky as his friend was also gay. I didn't know that this was a gay film in the beginning. Until about half time when i started questioning myself why wasn't he interested in Gi. At the end i had more questions. What would be his parent's reaction to that, now i had seen the impression on his bully friends. But it really did not matter. I guess!
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