MIFF 2023 Film Review - Sunflower
Images courtesy of Common State.
Sunflower is a coming-of-age feature film by Gabriel Carrubba. It’s been selected for this year’s Melbourne International Film Festival, Sydney Film Festival and is “going to Cannes” as part of a first ever initiative with Queer Screen, for very good reason…
Carrubba’s feature debut has been stunning audiences as it takes on the festival circuit, selling out sessions at MIFF and appearing in articles everywhere - a hype train well and truly worthy of the film. This sensitive story follows Leo, a 17-year-old boy coming to terms with his sexuality and braving the barbarous environment in which he will be judged, by parents and peers alike. The film is riddled with nostalgia, not an easy feat, but as someone who grew up in similar environments, it captures them perfectly.
Leo’s best friend Boof is a friendship we all had, and the boyish culture they perpetuate together is done so effectively, making it even more devastating when things go south. The film is somewhat meditative, especially in the beginning, but kicks up a storm in the last half, cementing it as a tear-jerker. The acting is sharp and authentic, with an electric performance by Elias Anton (Derek) which I wish was explored more.
The film is visually stunning, capturing quiet moments that we all remember well in high school. Scattered portraits that echo the charm, isolation and alienation of early LGBTQIA+ coming of age films , like Mysterious Skin (2004) and My Own Private Idaho (1991). Sunflower competes in the genre with delicate and colourful cinematography, some shots are so beautifully framed and organised, you want to pause and stare.
Carrubba has created a magical space in which you feel as though you are with the characters in the scene. Liam Mollica (Leo) brings such sensitivity to his role, representing the generations of quiet, angry and lonely boys who spent their high school nights talking to strange men on Omegle, and days forcing feelings that are innately unnatural.
Australia has been aching for a story like this, and it feels so good to finally see it. If you’re one of the lucky ones who snagged a ticket to the sold out MIFF screenings, then enjoy! If not, keep an eye out and hope this gets a theatrical release, because it absolutely deserves it.
Sunflower is screening as part of the Melbourne International Film Festival, running in metro cinemas August 3-20 and online August 18-27.
For more info, click here.