The Wandering Island ( 2024)

Pablo Borges‘s 2024 short film The Wandering Island (original title La Isla Errante) charmed me with its touching story, beautiful cinematography and last, but not least, skillful camerawork focusing on an idyllic childhood and the acting/appearance of the young Sergio Hernandez in the role of Carlos – a young boy haunted by the mystery of his father’s absence.

This film tells the story of Carlos (Sergio Hernández), a young boy raised by his grandfather, Federico (José Luis Madariaga). Federico is battling to keep his struggling banana farm afloat while grappling with a tempting offer from an investment fund to buy the neighbouring land. It opens with mystical music and a medieval-style screen that presents Saint Brendan’s legend. The story is a mixture of mythology, fantasy, and real-life issues, and I could relate to it based on my past summers spent on a paradise-like beach, which I loved back then but truly appreciated when I lost them.

Sergio Hernández Hernández and José Luis de Madariaga in The Wandering Island

Sergio Herrera‘s cinematography contributes much of the film’s appeal. Whether the camera focuses on the protagonists or the beautiful nature of the island where the action takes place, the cinematographer uses natural elements, light, and colour to evoke a serene and contemplative mood. Additionally, framing and the utilization of golden-hour lighting, combined with the subtle contrast between light and shadow, create a visually striking composition that enhances the scene’s warmth and depth while evoking a sense of intimacy and nostalgia.

Ricardo González’s soundtrack, blending Canarian folkloric rhythms with Latin influences, adds authenticity to the film while enhancing its emotional depth and themes.

The scenes featuring the young boy were somewhat puzzling to me until I realized that the depiction of an ideal childhood serves not only to evoke nostalgia in the viewers but is also linked to the story’s final resolution. They enrich the narrative with a compelling Coming-of-Age motif, a theme I eagerly anticipated. Furthermore, the beauty of the youth is portrayed with significant effect by the clever direction of Pablo Borges, and actor’s charisma of the young Sergio Hernandez serves as a visual symbol of purity, hope, and untainted aspirations. This contrasts effectively with the harsh realities of the farm’s economic struggles and the mysteries of the father’s absence.

Beautiful, poetic storytelling and a nostalgia-infused narrative with a hint of Coming-of-Age, The Wandering Island is a prime example of an impactful short film.

The Wandering Island ( 2024)

In short

The Wandering Island is a touching Coming-of-Age story, has beautiful cinematography and its skillful camerawork focuses on an idyllic childhood.

5

Our rating

IMBD

Reinventing Marvin (2017)

I have mixed feelings towards Anne Fontaine‘s 2017 drama Reinventing Marvin (Original title: Marvin ou la belle education). I even doubted if its story would move me enough to motivate me to write a review of it – which was not the case immediately after watching it.

Yet, the next day after I saw the film, I realized that the strong Coming-of-Age motifs and the highly emotive and expressive performance of Jules Porier portraying the struggles of a young Marvin (a gay boy growing up in a working house family in rural France) would have turned the omission of a review into a big mistake. The constant juxtaposition of Marvin’s childhood and adulthood throughout the film could confuse some viewers. Still, that plot complexity, usually reserved for art-house cinema, makes this movie memorable after one has had some time to reflect on it.

Bullying at school - Scene from Reinventing Marvin — Bullying at school – Scene from Reinventing Marvin

One can draw parallels between Reinventing Marvin and other classic Coming-of-Age films, such as Billy Elliot (although the passion for dance is exchanged for one for the theatre) and Rebekah Fortune‘s 2017 intense Coming-of-Age family drama, Just Charlie. Only the focus on sexuality and coming out is significantly stronger than in Just Charlie. The duality of the plot – between childhood and adulthood of the protagonist — is hinted at in the poster (which got me interested in the film in the first place), and the sophisticated editing needed to tell the story often confuses at times, which is why I had the initial doubts about reviewing the film.

Jules Porier as Marvin in Reinventing Marvin

Furthermore, some scenes regarding Marvin’s adult life (of a sexual nature) made me feel uncomfortable. While they did not add much meaning to the film’s development, they could severely limit the viewers’ age groups for which the film would otherwise be suitable. As subjective an observation as this might be, I believe that it should have been mentioned, as many filmmakers have been more subtle while achieving the same impact on their viewers.

Reinventing Marvin – Trailer

The film has its messages: the importance of being who you are and the hurtful outcomes of homophobia, ignorance, and misunderstanding. Those messages come across in the film. Yet, I can’t help but wish that some art-house techniques were skipped in favour of more traditional character development. But then, I guess that would have led to a completely different film.

Reinventing Marvin (2017)

Conclusion

The story of the struggles of a homosexual boy growing up in a working house family in rural France.

3.3

Our Rating

IMBD

Alone (2021)

In the 2011 French short film, Alone (original title Seuls), directed by Arthur Casez, 11-year-old Theo’s heated argument with his father takes a dramatic turn when he storms off into the forest. When his father is severely injured while pursuing him, Theo finds himself isolated and alone in the vast wilderness and has to make the right choice.

The breach between the generations and the effect a divorce has on kids, alongside alienation or familial strain, are the central themes of the film. The fact that the action takes place in the wilderness could serve as a literal and metaphorical battleground for Theo to confront his fears and resentment of his father.

The film’s use of close-up shots with shallow depth of field powerfully isolates the young protagonist, emphasising his emotional vulnerability and creating an intimate connection. A hand-held camera is used sparingly in scenes, when needed, to emphasise tension and distress. As in most Coming-of-Age films that I watch, I was able to connect to Theo’s character on a personal level but, in the end, whatever mistakes one might have made in the past – if there was a mistake, there is forgiveness.

Leo Campion delivers an excellent performance as the young Theo. His facial expressions are top-notch, boosting the emotional impact of the film on its viewers, and it does not come as a surprise that, after this film, he was cast in two excellent French Coming-of-Age films, namely The Time of Secrets (2021) and The Blond Boy from the Casbah (2023).

In eleven minutes of screen time, the story is well told, and the film is well worth your time.

John John in the Sky (2000)

“What’s the difference between a model plane and the real thing? Scale — that’s it.”

Most Coming-of-Age films have one thing in common: they always bring a sense of nostalgia to the viewer. And, in my opinion, that’s especially true if the action takes place in the American South, which induces our sense of past times while presenting us with characters and heroes who are continually conscious of theirs.

Some do a better job than others. The film John John in the Sky (also known as I’ll Wave Back) is a compelling and emotionally rich coming-of-age film that masterfully weaves together themes of personal growth, imagination, and the complexities of human relationships.

Director John Schultz deftly guides the narrative through a series of seamlessly integrated flashbacks, bridging the gap between past and present to enhance the film’s emotional resonance. The film features one of the best heart-warming transitions from the present day into the past. Often, when I walk around the places where I grew up, I recall scenes from the film and imagine myself as a kid in those spots.

The story in this film is best summarized as “a trip down memory lane.” It follows a father (John Clairborne, played by Matt Letscher) who brings his son to the place where he spent his childhood to recall the people and events that shaped his personality.

As the elder John recalls his childhood (he was called John John back then), he remembers his closest friend – a thirty-two-year-old mentally challenged woman who seems to be the female version of Peter Pan. She had hung out with the ten-year-old boy, plotting plans with him to build a plane that could carry him and his mother to San Francisco. The young John John (played by Christian Craft) and his unusual friend, Zeola (Rusty Schwimmer), are two of the most adorable characters you will ever see on screen. Their friendship is heartwarming, even though, as in all friendships, it’s challenged more than once. This is especially true when John John was befriended by a boy his age who didn’t hesitate to insult the woman because of her mental condition.

The film’s exploration of interpersonal relationships, both within John’s family and outside of it, adds depth and richness to the narrative. Viewers witness the various characters’ growth and change as the story unfolds, making their journeys relatable and emotionally engaging.

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Jacob and the Quisling (2021)

Jacob and the Quisling (original title: Skuddene på Bergenhus) is a Norwegian short film with strong Coming-of-Age overtones. The lead character is twelve year old Jacob (Lukas Holen) whose father makes him clean the floors of the police station. It is there that he meets a man, a quisling (a traitor, especially one who collaborates with an enemy occupying force), who is on death row.

Although Jacob is instructed not to speak or even look at the prisoner – they strike a conversation which leads to dire consequences for both of them as the man is considered to be a monster by the police.

Although the plot is not entirely convincing, the film impresses with its excellent product design (especially the costumes) which give it an authentic look for the time period in which the action takes place (the aftermath of World War II). Sound is used to create suspense in an effective manner and the acting of Lukas Holen as Jacob is impressive. Unfortunately, the young actor did not pursue a career in cinema.

The central motif is compassion. But, in addition to that, there is an emphasis on a father-son relationship as well as hate and rebellion. Last, but not least, the final scene is beautiful and memorable on its own .

Rockaway (2017)

Rockaway, a 2017 Coming-of-Age drama directed and written by John J. Budion, depicts the tale of two brothers, Anthony and John, who go through a difficult upbringing with an abusive father.

The story of the film takes place over the summer of 1994, and it takes us on a journey that involves friendship, resiliency, a quest for retaliation and ultimately sacrifice.

The cinematography is one of the film’s strongest aspects. Slow-motion scenes, close-ups, and a variety of camera perspectives successfully conjure a sense of nostalgia contributing to the enhancement of the Coming-of-Age themes that are at the heart of the tale.

The nostalgic visuals create a strong boyhood charm, making Rockaway feel like a homage to classic Coming-of-Age films, such as Stand By Me and The Sandlot.

Maxwell Apple and Keidrich Sellati in Rockaway (2017) — Maxwell Apple and Keidrich Sellati in Rockaway

Despite dealing with grim themes, including domestic abuse, the film remains accessible and captivating for audiences. Its engaging narrative and well-rounded characters contribute to a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of resilience and brotherly love.

The acting in Rockaway is a prominent component of the film, particularly when it comes to the performances of the young cast members. Maxwell Apple offers a nuanced portrayal of young John, capturing the character’s introversion and fragility, while Keidrich Sellati shines as Anthony, delivering a believable portrait of a youngster navigating a tumultuous family situation.

The connection between Apple and Sellati is natural and endearing, making their brotherly bond all the more convincing and intriguing.The supporting cast is similarly remarkable, with performers like Colin Critchley and James DiGiacomo infusing life into their particular roles and providing complexity to the entire tale.

Unfortunately, despite the good performances of the young cast, the film falls short in terms of evoking a more personal emotional impact. The reason for that could be hidden in the directing or the fact that the performance of the adult cast is not on par with that of the young actors, which is not that infrequent in Coming-of-Age narratives.

The soundtrack of the movie combines rock and urban rap, which intensifies the atmosphere and provides an interesting and vivid background for the plot.

Fans of the Coming-of-Age genre will appreciate the dynamic exchanges among the youthful ensemble, maybe evoking nostalgic memories of their own childhoods. In a nutshell, Rockaway is an enthralling Coming-of-Age story that addresses challenging topics while retaining a feeling of hope and nostalgia.

Rockaway (2017)

In short

Rockaway is an enthralling Coming-of-Age story that addresses challenging topics while retaining a feeling of hope and nostalgia.

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Reader Rating0 Votes

3.7

Our rating

Bjarne: The 10-Year-Old Sensation Captivating Germany on The Voice Kids

It is not the first time that we have been extremely impressed by an incredibly talented young vocalist from Germany. Back in 2013, RJ Mendera wrote an article introducing a young performer from Offenburg, Germany: Mike Singer. Though it feels like only yesterday, Mike has come a long way since his break through performance on The Voice Kids Germany. Since those early days, he has blossomed into a promising young artist, transforming his raw talent into a burgeoning singing career.

Bjarne the voice kids — Bjarne – The Voice Kids

The Voice Kids Germany has once again brought forth an extraordinarily talented young performer – the remarkable 10-year-old Bjarne. Possessing a voice that transcends his age, Bjarne has the unique ability to touch the souls of his listeners with every heartfelt note. At the blind auditions, he performed Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi. Stepping onto the stage with a toy rabbit in hand, Bjarne’s unassuming presence quickly gave way to a jaw-dropping performance that showcased a vocal range and emotional depth well beyond his years. His blind audition on The Voice Kids Germany in March 2024 immediately garnered attention, establishing him as a rising star in the competition.

With his impressive vocal abilities and charming demeanor, Bjarne has already amassed a dedicated following on social media (more than 94 thousands followers on Instagram, including the author of this article, plus over 100 million views of his performance on TikTok). This young talent’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine passion for music continues to inspire viewers both in Germany and around the globe (I found out about his performance on X). As the competition on The Voice Kids Germany continues to heat up, all eyes are on Bjarne to see just how far his incredible voice and captivating presence will take him. One thing is for certain: Bjarne is a name to remember, as this young sensation continues to make waves in the world of music.

This article seeks to offer a glimpse into the remarkable talent that Bjarne possesses — a gift that leaves a lasting impression on all who experience it. Young artists like Bjarne have the power to inspire and uplift, enriching the lives of those fortunate enough to encounter their extraordinary abilities. By sharing his story, we celebrate the promise of his bright future and the joy that his music brings to fans around the globe.

Rounding First (2005)

Rounding First is a Coming-of-Age film that follows the adventures of three young boys in American suburbia. Set against a backdrop of classic 1980s and 1990s nostalgia, the movie explores the universal themes of friendship, family, and growing up.

The film’s strongest assets are its trio of likable and distinct protagonists. Their individual personalities, engaging dialogues, and interactions provide a solid foundation for the story. Each character brings a unique perspective, allowing viewers to connect with their experiences and challenges.

One standout aspect of Rounding First is its use of nostalgic elements, such as bike rides, baseball games, and arcade machines. These details effectively transport the audience to a simpler time and create an immersive environment.

However, the film suffers from slow pacing and a lack of depth in certain areas. While the characters are well-developed, the overall story feels drawn-out and fails to maintain consistent momentum. The final scenes and ending may leave viewers feeling somewhat confused and unsatisfied.

In conclusion, Rounding First presents an interesting and nostalgic tale with sympathetic characters, but its pacing and story development hold it back from being a truly great Coming-of-Age film. Fans of the genre may still find aspects to enjoy, but more casual viewers might struggle to stay engaged throughout the entire movie.

Trailer

Vicarious: A Parable (2024)

Vicarious is a short film with good intentions, aiming to deliver an inspirational message about selflessness and sacrifice. Set in a small American school in the early 1900s, the film creates an authentic atmosphere through its cinematography and production design.

However, the movie falls short in several areas. The decision to keep the story contained within a single schoolroom feels limiting and contributes to a sense of confinement. The acting, while visually appealing, feels rehearsed and lacks depth, which could have been improved with more improvisation. Incorporating improvisation into the acting could have added a sense of spontaneity and authenticity to the performances, allowing the actors to truly inhabit their characters and respond to each other in the moment. This would have brought a fresh energy and naturalness to the film, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Additionally, the rapid editing style feels out of place in a period film, creating a disconnect between the visuals and the narrative. While the overall message is admirable, the execution leaves much to be desired. In the end, Vicarious is a well-intentioned but ultimately lackluster short film that struggles to make a lasting impact.

Perl oder Pica (2006)

Perl oder Pica (Little Secrets) is a delightful Coming-of-Age film set in post-war Luxembourg. Based on an autobiographical novel, the movie follows the adventures of Norbi, a 12-year-old boy navigating the complexities of growing up in a rapidly changing world.

With its relatable characters, immersive setting, and heartfelt storytelling, Perl oder Pica offers a charming addition to the Coming-of-Age genre.

As an altar boy, Norbi is expected to maintain a pious and innocent demeanor, but his curiosity and mischievous nature often lead him into various escapades. Throughout the movie, Norbi grapples with the challenges of fitting in at school, understanding his father’s values, and making sense of the world around him.

His adventures and relationships help paint a vivid picture of life in post-war Luxembourg, as Norbi learns valuable lessons about growing up, friendship, and family.

The contrast between Norbi’s role as an altar boy and his hidden rebellious streak is especially intriguing. While he dons the garments of an angelic figure, Norbi secretly indulges in his own form of rebellion, using the money he earns as an altar boy to buy cigarettes.

This dichotomy between Norbi’s outward appearance and his true nature not only adds depth to his character but also serves as a metaphor for the societal tensions and contradictions prevalent in post-war Luxembourg. By presenting a protagonist who simultaneously embodies both the angelic and the devilish, the film encourages viewers to consider the complexity of human behavior and the ways in which individuals navigate and resist societal expectations.

Perl oder Pica Trailer

One of the most intriguing aspects of Perl oder Pica is its origin as an adaptation of an autobiographical novel by Jhemp Hoscheit. What makes this connection even more fascinating is that the lead protagonist in the movie, Norbi, is portrayed by Ben Hoscheit, who is the son of the author. This unique combination adds a layer of authenticity and personal connection to the story, as the audience witnesses the narrative brought to life by someone with a direct link to the original source material. The interplay between the written word and its cinematic interpretation, coupled with the familial connection, makes Perl oder Pica a truly distinctive and compelling Coming-of-Age film.

Ben Hoscheit as Norbi in Perl oder Pica ( 2006)

Perl oder Pica excels in creating a relatable and authentic portrayal of a young boy’s experiences. The film’s first-person narrative allows the audience to connect with Norbi on a personal level, while the documentary footage interspersed throughout the movie enhances the historical context.

One of the film’s most notable strengths is its exploration of universal themes such as curiosity, rebellion, and the search for identity. These themes are thoughtfully woven into the narrative, making Norbi’s journey both engaging and emotionally resonant. The movie’s attention to detail in set design and costumes helps to create an immersive atmosphere. This dedication to historical accuracy reinforces the film’s themes and adds depth to the overall storytelling.

While Perl oder Pica may not break new ground in the Coming-of-Age genre, its honesty and heart make it a standout addition. Fans of the genre will appreciate the film’s adherence to classic tropes, while those new to Coming-of-Age films will find it an accessible and enjoyable entry point.

Perl oder Pica (2006)

In short

Based on an autobiographical novel, Perl oder Pica follows the adventures of Norbi, a 12-year-old boy navigating the complexities of growing up in a rapidly changing world.

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Reader Rating1 Votes

3.9

Our rating

Someone You Love (2014)

In Someone You Love, director Pernille Fischer Christensen tells the heartfelt story of Thomas Jacob, a renowned musician who returns to his Danish hometown to reconcile with his estranged family. As Thomas embarks on a journey of personal growth and reflection, he forms an unexpected bond with his grandson, set against the backdrop of music and family drama.

While Someone You Love centers around the intergenerational relationship between Thomas and his grandson, it’s also worth noting that the film contains a Coming-of-Age narrative that challenges traditional notions of the genre. Coming-of-Age stories usually focus on adolescents navigating the trials and tribulations of growing up. However, in this film, the characters’ personal growth and self-discovery transcend age, reminding us that Coming-of-Age can occur at any stage of life.

Sofus Rønnov as Noa in Someone You Love (2014)

Mikael Persbrandt as Thomas delivers an extraordinary performance in a complex yet relatable role. At the same time, the role of Sofus Rønnov as Thomas’s grandson, Noa, is more of a supporting one as the narrative prioritizes Thomas’s personal journey over the growth and depth of the relationship between its central characters.

Music takes center stage in Someone You Love, serving as a diegetic score that reflects the characters’ emotional journeys. While the film touches on the healing power of music, this theme could have been explored more deeply to further enhance the narrative’s emotional resonance. However, the use of songs sung by Thomas adds an intimate and emotional layer to the story.

One particularly powerful scene in Someone You Love moved me to tears, showcasing the film’s ability to evoke strong emotions through its compelling narrative and performances. In my mind, if a film can make me feel something, that’s often a sign of its quality.

With its emphasis on personal growth, learning from past mistakes, and complex, relatable characters, Someone You Love stands out as a unique and engaging Coming-of-Age film. While the final scenes may not be as strong as the rest of the narrative, the film’s overall message and emotional impact make it a worthwhile watch. Though I would have appreciated a more realistic and less idealized resolution, Someone You Love remains a memorable and thought-provoking cinematic experience that showcases the importance of music, family, and self-discovery.

Someone You Love (2014)

In short

"Someone You Love" is a poignant and evocative cinematic journey that masterfully weaves together the transformative power of music, the intricate bonds of family, and the beauty of self-discovery.

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Reader Rating0 Votes

0

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IMBD

Thank God We Have Each Other (2022)

With its unique and captivating storyline and a talented ensemble cast of young actors, Anne Giafferi‘s 2002 film Thank God We Have Each Other (Heureusement qu’on s’a) offers a refreshing take on the Coming-of-Age family drama genre.

In this case the term “family drama” can be taken quite literally as one such drama unfolds on screen. The viewer observes the ways in which the characters affected deal with it and, as in life itself, no easy solutions are found and decisions lead to unforeseen consequences .

Oscar Pauleau, who plays the role of Vincent, a thirteen-year-old boy, is the protagonist of this drama. Vincent is compelled to take care of his younger brother and sister when their mother makes an attempt to take her own life.

Adding to the obstacles they face, the film’s teenage protagonist and his younger siblings are forced to rely on their father, who ultimately proves to be irresponsible and self-centered. It is interesting to note that the terms “immature,” “selfish,” and “irresponsible” define not the teenage image of Vincent, but rather the father once admired by his son.

Oscar Pauleau delivers a powerful performance, capturing the emotional journey of his character with authenticity and depth. His ability to convey complex emotions through subtle facial expressions is truly remarkable. His eyes, in particular, serve as windows into his character’s soul, revealing a depth of emotion that is both captivating and relatable for the audience.

A co-production between France and Belgium and released as TV movie, Thank God We Have Each Other shares similar thematic elements with Edward Berger’s 2014 German drama Jack , Dardenne Brothers’ 2011 movie The Kid with a Bike, Philippe Claudel’s A Childhood, as well as the 2004 Japanese film Nobody Knows. All these films focus on abandonment and Coming- of-Age in a contemporary setting with strong young leads.

With its insightful exploration of adolescence and the complexities of family dynamics, Thank God We Have Each Other is a heartwarming and poignant film that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

Thank God We Have Each Other (2022)

In short

With its insightful exploration of adolescence and the complexities of family dynamics, Thank God We Have Each Other is a heartwarming and poignant film that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

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Reader Rating3 Votes

5

Our rating

IMBD

TheSkyKid.com

TheSKyKid.com

The Wandering Island ( 2024)

Reinventing Marvin (2017)

Alone (2021)

John John in the Sky (2000)

Jacob and the Quisling (2021)

Rockaway (2017)

Bjarne: The 10-Year-Old Sensation Captivating Germany on The Voice Kids

Rounding First (2005)

Vicarious: A Parable (2024)

Perl oder Pica (2006)

Someone You Love (2014)

Thank God We Have Each Other (2022)