It Felt Like Love

In the evocative drama It Felt Like Love, released in 2013, we are drawn into the sun-soaked streets of South Brooklyn through the eyes of 14-year-old Lila. The film artfully captures a pivotal summer in her life as she navigates the complexities of adolescence, friendship, and the yearning for sexual experiences. Lila’s journey is marked by her role as a third wheel, trailing behind her adventurous best friend Chiara and Chiara’s charismatic boyfriend Patrick. While Chiara revels in her burgeoning sexuality, Lila feels a growing desire to break free from her own insecurities and pursue her first love, leading her to the older, enigmatic Sammy—a figure shrouded in rumors and allure.

What makes It Felt Like Love resonate is its raw exploration of teenage desire and the often tumultuous path toward self-discovery. Lila’s infatuation with Sammy is both thrilling and fraught with the potential for heartbreak, reflecting the bittersweet nature of first love. As she grapples with her feelings and the realities of adult relationships, the film deftly examines themes of friendship, identity, and the painful yet exhilarating moments that define youth. With its understated yet powerful storytelling, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own formative experiences, making it a poignant watch for anyone who recalls the complexities of growing up.