From writer and director Eliza Hittman comes a captivating film that delves into the complexities of queer identity, pain and grief.

Beach Rats takes viewers on an emotional journey as it follows a young man named Frankie, who grapples with the recent loss of his father while slowly exploring his own sexuality.

Frankie spends his days loitering in front of the backdrop of the Coney Island boardwalks with his lughead mates. His nights however are spent leading a double life as he hits up gay chat rooms in search of connection, exploration, and dick.

Frankie’s struggle with his sexual identity is a common experience faced by many and let’s face it. It’s something we’ve all seen before.

Following the death of his terminally ill father, whilst desperately trying to fit into the mold of the straight white male that everyone thinks he is, he finds himself playing a dangerous game. The boundaries between Frankie’s worlds start to breakdown, hurtling towards a painful ending with many questions left unanswered.

The film seems to have a grainy filter feel to it. This sets the tone as a proper indie film but also represents the haze of the characters, as they are all adrift, but none more so than Frankie.

He becomes a symbol of the restless souls wandering through life, searching for meaning and acceptance. As the Brooklyn summer unfolds, Frankie’s vulnerability is exposed, both figuratively and literally, so don’t let the slow burner plot hold you back. The camera doesn’t shy away from some fleshy close ups that you’ll think about for days. And let’s face it, an evening watching Harris Dickinson tease full frontal is an evening well spent. Especially with a blink and you’ll miss it shot that shall we say, certainly stands to attention.

Since the film’s release in 2017, London-born Dickinson has continued to shine in various roles, including his appearances in the spy action prequel, The King’s Man, and the more recent film, Triangle of Sadness. But if it’s another queer indie flick you’re after, then Postcards From London is a noteworthy recommendation if you want another fix of the rising star.

Beach Rats is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that explores themes of queer identity, grief, and the search for self-discovery. It beautifully captures the complexities of human emotions, leaving viewers with lingering questions and a deeper understanding of the journey towards acceptance.