BIG 

The film may be a thriller, but I wasn’t thrilled by it. If anything, I was bored and annoyed.

I hope that more people will see Joyland, understand the situation, and eventually change themselves and society so we can have a more accommodating world where everyday tragedies like the one depicted in the film do not occur.

One of the great achievements of this film is its ability to challenge the mind and to force you to try to process information in a different way than you’re used to.

Despite its glaring flaws, First Girl I Loved is not entirely undeserving of a watch. For people who can handle the more difficult aspects of the story and graphic scenes, it is worth looking into. It’s not a film worthy of rewatch, but it may still resonate somewhat with those who need a story like this. It is a genuine, if flimsy attempt at a coming-of-age tale. Were the film to be directed by someone with experiences more similar to Anne, it would likely be more powerful--as it is, it feels like a man’s perspective of what it means to come to terms with your identity as a lesbian. 

The relationship between Will and Sean is the best part of the movie. It’s always a delight to see Robin Williams on screen