Dating Amber

Dating Amber is a 2020 comedy-drama film that cleverly explores societal constraints and acceptance in a humor-laden, heartwarming, and captivating manner. The film, an Irish production, was directed by an emerging talent in the world of filmmaking, David Freyne, who uses his personal experiences to weave a tale that pulls at the heartstrings of its viewers while making them chuckle at the same time. The admirable performance by Fionn O'Shea and Lola Petticrew as the leading duo, coupled with sterling support from Sharon Horgan, further enhances the film's charm.

Set in the mid-90s in the small, conservative town of Kildare, Ireland, the movie contingent on two high school classmates, Eddie (Fionn O'Shea) and Amber (Lola Petticrew), often subjected to ridicule, largely due to their non-heteronormative sexual orientations in a society where everything but heterosexuality is considered an anomaly. The dichotomy of their lives, at school and at home, and their struggle with their identities forms the premise of the film. Trying to make their lives easier and escape the bullies at school, the two decide to fake being in a heterosexual relationship. This unexpected alliance and shared rebellion against the societal norms result in a heartwarming bond of friendship between them.

Fionn O'Shea, following the amazing performance in 'Normal People', delivers another memorable role as Eddie, a teenager who often wrestles with his identity and is consistently under pressure to live up to societal norms and maintain his family's reputation. The stoical Eddie gets his life turned upside down due to changes on both the home front and within himself. Eddie’s father, played by the incomparable Sharon Horgan of 'Catastrophe' fame, anticipates that Eddie would join the army and follow his 'legacy,' but Eddie’s interest rests elsewhere far removed from the ombudsman world.

Lola Petticrew, as Amber, is the catalyst that turns Eddie’s life on its head. Amber, too, is facing her own battles; her father’s death has left her mother and her in a precarious financial condition, and the journey of self-acceptance isn't an easy one for her either. Petticrew delivers an exceptionally nuanced performance, perfectly embodying Amber's spirit and strength.

As the story unfolds, the relationship between Eddie and Amber evolves from mere pretense to a lasting friendship based on shared struggles, sandwiches, and secrets, offering an alternate reality where their identities don't incite distaste or disgust. Their 'dating period' holds up a mirror to the society that stifles individuality and promotes uniformity, and subtly underlines the importance of being true to oneself.

'Dating Amber' expertly navigates the sensitive issue of homosexuality, capturing the essence of its setting perfectly. Ireland in the 90s was a place where section 37 was still in force, which made it legal to fire someone based on their sexuality. People here were yet to gain an adequate understanding of homosexuality or reorient their thought processes between 'traditional norms' and individual acceptance. The film skillfully portrays this dichotomy through the characters of Eddie and Amber.

David Freyne's directorial finesse and the brilliant performances of the cast result in a compelling narrative that hits on touchy topics and societal prejudices, exploring them with a perfect balance of humor and drama. The film isn't just about the struggle of two teenagers with their sexual orientations, but it methodically maps the ridiculous societal pressures that often snuff out individuality and breed pretense.

The cinematography by Ruairí O'Brien is spellbinding, capturing the beautiful Irish countryside and small-town life in stunning detail. The stirring music by Hugh Drumm and Stephen Rennicks compliments the narrative, strikingly enhancing the emotional sequences.

To sum it up, 'Dating Amber' is a heartfelt tale of self-discovery, friendship, and rebellion against societal norms. With a blend of humor, drama, poignant moments, and compelling performances, the film champions the essence of self-acceptance and underlines the importance of being true to oneself. It's definitely a film worth watching for its enlightening message, powerful performances, and engaging storytelling.