Well this is a film!

OK, so I watched an amazing film last night. A German film actually. Never been one for German films, but this one got my attention.

Summer Storm ('Sommersturm') is a German coming-of-age film written and directed by Marco Kruezpaintner, starring Robert Stadlober. The film chronicles a week in a rowing regatta where the main character, Tobi (Stadlober) questions the depth of his feelings for best friend Achim (Kostja Ullmann) whilst attempting to juggle a "normal" relationship with girlfriend Anke (Alicja Bachleda-Curus). Tobi's confusion is exacerbated with the arrival of rowing team 'The Queerstrokes', who are all out and proud, and an impending summer storm.u

Despite an occasional music video feel, specifically a cheesy music sequence of the landscape, Kruezpaintner employs some rather striking shots in the film. From a fallen tree, literally isolating Tobi from everyone; to Tobi letting loose and jumping off a lake dock, and, to the actual 'summer storm', Kruezpaintner displays intelligent visual metaphors for the internal confusion and fear that builds up within Tobi.

Even more impressive are the performances, with Stadlober perhaps channelling his own experiences (he is openly bisexual) into the difficult, and sometimes selfish, character of Tobi. Also notable is Marlon Kittel's courageous and poignant performance as Leo, the 'Queerstrokes' member who helps Tobi accept his sexuality.

What is most surprising about Summer Storm, however, is how it is perhaps aimed just as much towards Queer Film Festival critics as it is to teens. It is both a teen dramedy with honest performances and sensitive direction, and a foreign art-house flick housing a killer soundtrack and frat-boy culture.

All involved should be congratulated on presenting a film that is both honest with the psyche of homosexual teenagers, whilst still accessible enough to appeal to most (mature) audiences. A definite winner!