Cicada

In New York City, Ben, a withdrawn adult, grapples with the weight of his past and a series of impulsive decisions. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Sam, a man who appears to be his soulmate. As their relationship deepens, Ben finds himself increasingly drawn into the complexities of his own identity and his turbulent history with his adoptive parents.

Cicada received a mixed to positive reception from critics, with particular praise for its raw and honest exploration of trauma, identity, and queer love. Some reviewers noted its unconventional narrative structure and intense emotional core, while others found it challenging but ultimately rewarding.

• Praised for its unflinching portrayal of trauma and its impact on relationships.
• The film's emotional intensity and authentic performances were frequently highlighted.
• Some found the narrative structure to be experimental and occasionally disorienting.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's emotional depth and the exploration of difficult themes, finding the central relationship compelling. Some viewers noted that the film can be emotionally taxing but ultimately impactful.

Nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature at the 37th Independent Spirit Awards. It also screened at various film festivals, receiving attention for its bold storytelling.

The film is semi-autobiographical, drawing heavily from the personal experiences of co-director and star Matthew Fifer, particularly his own journey of coming out and dealing with past trauma.