It Felt Like Love

In the sweltering heat of a Brooklyn summer, 17-year-old Lila navigates the complexities of first love and sexual awakening. As her feelings for her best friend's older boyfriend grow, she finds herself increasingly drawn into a world beyond her understanding. The film delicately explores the awkwardness and intensity of teenage desire, the yearning for connection, and the often-painful process of self-discovery.

Eliza Hittman's debut feature garnered significant critical acclaim for its raw, authentic portrayal of adolescent sexuality and emotional vulnerability. Critics praised its naturalistic performances, understated direction, and intimate, observational style, often comparing it to the sensitive works of John Cassavetes. It resonated with audiences for its honest depiction of teenage longing and the often-unspoken dynamics of burgeoning relationships.

• Praised for its authentic and sensitive portrayal of teenage desire.

• Hailed for its naturalistic performances and intimate directorial style.

• Celebrated as a poignant and uncomfortable exploration of burgeoning sexuality.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's realistic depiction of adolescent experiences and its honest exploration of first love. Many found the performances compelling and the story relatable, though some noted its slow pacing and intimate focus.

Premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, where it won a Special Jury Mention for Eliza Hittman. Nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature.

Director Eliza Hittman drew inspiration for the film from her own experiences and observations of adolescent life in Brooklyn during the 1990s.