Beach Rats

Beach Rats, a 2017 indie drama directed by Eliza Hittman, is a raw and arresting exploration of sexuality and identity in the midst of societal pressures and expectations. The film brings forth a telling narrative that dwells on the crossroads of youth, machismo, and sexual discovery, all set against the backdrop of a working-class Brooklyn backdrop. The film features a stand-out performance from lead actor Harris Dickinson, who effortlessly merges with his complex character, pushing the boundaries of emotional vulnerability and machismo, sometimes even within the same scene.

The narrative revolves around Frankie, played by Dickinson, a teenager on the verge of adulthood who spends his summer days causing trouble with his delinquent friends, and aimlessly ambling on the boardwalk and beaches of Brooklyn's southern enclave, Coney Island. At first glance, Frankie seems to be like other guys his age – easygoing, a little wayward, and deeply absorbed in the youthful bro culture that surrounds him. However, as Beach Rats carefully unfolds, it becomes clear that Frankie is concealing a complex inner conflict that's at odds with his public persona.

Frankie's internal turmoil is largely focused on his sexual orientation. During his often-ennui filled nights, Frankie ventures into the clandestine world of online chat rooms where he can engage with older men. These cyber interactions, despite their transactional nature, offer Frankie something he doesn't find in his life outside the internet - a semblance of freedom to explore his burgeoning sexuality. Yet, the disparity between his day-to-day life and his secret exploits becomes a source of tension. We also see Frankie navigating a relationship with a young woman, Simone, played by Madeline Weinstein. This relationship in its own way mirrors Frankie's struggle to conform to societal norms despite the struggle he experiences in aligning his desires with those norms.

The film's narrative extends beyond Frankie's sexual explorations and taps into the wider realities of his existence - a family coping with a father suffering from a terminal illness, economic disparity, drug use and the pervasive macho culture.

The dynamic between the lead characters, with Dickinson's Frankie at the helm, is fascinating to watch. Dickinson embodies Frankie with a quiet intensity, delivering a layered performance that makes the character both relatable and intriguing. The palpable chemistry he shares with co-star Weinstein creates a tension that drives much of the film's narrative, illuminating the confusion and fear lurking within Frankie.

Director Hittman, known for her naturalistic storytelling approach, leverages her exceptional talent to impart an authentic and unfiltered feel to the story. Every character, event, and encounter in Beach Rats feels genuine, a testament to Hittman's adeptness at capturing the realism of human interactions and teenage angst.

The environment too plays a huge role in the film, with Hittman using the languid beach setting as a visual metaphor for freedom and constraint. Cinematographer Hélène Louvart employs a distinct aesthetic that bathes the film in soft, muted colors, evoking an almost dream-like quality that matches the narrative's contemplative tone.

The title, Beach Rats, is apt; it reflects not just the endless summer days and nights spent in aimless abandon by the motley crew of characters, but a broader metaphor for people who are trapped within the confines of social norms, much like the nocturnal creatures forced to scurry around in the dark.

In the end, Beach Rats, is a film that dares to challenge conventional narratives about masculinity and sexuality. Without falling into trite melodrama or clichéd plot points, it carves out an unflinchingly honest portrayal of a young man wrestling with his identity - a journey that serves as an allegory for the struggles of countless others who exist right on the fringe of society's norms.

With stellar performances, especially from its lead actor Harris Dickinson, coupled with artistic cinematography and thoughtful direction, Beach Rats leaves a lasting impression, proving to be a sincere exploration of a young man's struggle with his sexuality and the societal pressures of conformance.