The Way He Looks (Brazil, 96 min.)
Directed by Daniel Ribeiro
Lacuna Films
Street: 04.10

While the world watched a bunch of sweaty men kicking around balls in Brazil, I was watching this coming of age story of a rebellious, blind and gay Brazilian teenager. Leonardo (Fabio Audi) desperately wants to get away from his loving yet overprotective parents; his best friend and sidekick, Giovana (Tess Amorim), desperately wants to turn their friendship into something more. Enter Gabriel (Ghilherme Lobo), a transfer student with luscious locks and a carefree attitude. Gab and Leo become friends, distancing Giovana amid some benign high school drama. Against the awkwardness of being a blind teen, picked on by jack-ass bullies, Leo’s friendship with Gabriel grows into something more. It’s a sweet love story that isn’t trying to be anything bold or innovative, but remains heartwarming nonetheless.