Vanilla

Synopsis

Vanilla is a coming-of-age drama that follows the story of Daniel Gosset, a young man who navigates the complexities of identity, sexuality, and acceptance as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant queer underground scene, the film explores themes of love, friendship, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in contemporary society. With its personal and heartfelt narrative, Vanilla offers a sensitive and authentic portrayal of youth and the quest for belonging, capturing the emotional nuances of growing up and embracing one's true self.

Cast

• Will Dennis

  Elliot

• Kelsea Bauman

  Kimmie

• 

  Eddie Alfano

• 

  Kathryn Grody

• 

  Johnny Sibilly

• 

  Aparna Nancherla

Reviews

Vanilla received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its earnest storytelling and authentic representation. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a strong 86% rating, indicating broad approval from critics who highlighted the movie's intimate character study and emotional depth. The performances, especially by Will Dennis, were noted for their subtlety and sincerity. However, some reviews on IMDb, where the film scores a 5.6/10, pointed out that the pacing might feel sluggish for some viewers and that the narrative could be somewhat minimalistic. Metacritic’s aggregated score aligns with these views, tending towards a mixed or average reception but acknowledging the film’s heart and authenticity. Overall, Vanilla is lauded for its commitment to telling an important and relatable story, even while its minimalist approach may not appeal to all tastes. Its honest portrayal of queer life and personal struggle stands out as a significant contribution to LGBTQ+ cinema.

See also

Don't Worry Darling

Serial Teachers 2

Junior

Do Not Disturb