Leonardo

I want to be free. I want to be able to look at the world without worrying about what others think of me.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Sometimes I can see things differently, even if I can't see them the same way.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Giovana

You don’t have to be perfect to be loved.

Giovana

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Every moment with you feels like a new beginning.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Gabriel

Love doesn’t need to see; it just needs to feel.

Gabriel

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Why should I hide who I am? I want to be myself.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Friendship is blind, just like me.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

I never want to let go of this feeling.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Giovana

To be brave is to be vulnerable.

Giovana

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Gabriel

Love is about connection, not about sight.

Gabriel

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

I want to discover the world, even if I can’t see it.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

You make me feel seen.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Giovana

Everyone deserves a chance to be loved for who they are.

Giovana

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Sometimes the things we can’t see are the most important.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Acting like someone else will never lead to true happiness.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Giovana

Friendship sees beyond the surface.

Giovana

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Gabriel

Love is the greatest adventure of all.

Gabriel

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

I don’t need eyes to feel your heart.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Giovana

There’s strength in being different.

Giovana

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Life is a canvas, and love is the paint.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Gabriel

We all need a little guidance to find our way.

Gabriel

The Way He Looks, Reelive
Leonardo

Every heartbeat is a reminder of how alive we are.

Leonardo

The Way He Looks, Reelive

Fascination

Fascination by The 1975, Various romantic scenes

A Song for a Friend

A Song for a Friend by The 1975, Emotional moments between characters

Sunset

Sunset by The 1975, Climactic scenes illustrating development of the relationship


Download App

The Opening Scene

The film starts with Leonardo, a blind teenager, navigating his home in the morning. His independence is immediately established as he makes breakfast and prepares for school. The audience gets a sense of his routines and how he interacts with his surroundings. The scene builds up confidence about Leonardo’s character, showcasing that he does not see his blindness as a limitation. The pivotal moment is when he confidently walks to school, using his cane expertly, setting the stage for his journey toward self-discovery and the relationships he will form. This moment resonates as it highlights resilience and the desire for normalcy, a powerful theme throughout the film.

Context: This scene serves as the introduction to Leonardo's life, establishing his independence and strength despite his visual impairment. It sets the foundation for his character development and the emotional relationships that unfold.

Leonardo Meets Gabriel

Leonardo meets Gabriel, a new student at his school. The tension is palpable as they share an awkward yet significant first interaction. Leonardo’s curiosity about Gabriel sparks a chemistry that is both innocent and compelling. The pivotal moment occurs when Gabriel offers to help Leonardo navigate a challenging situation, which symbolizes the beginning of their relationship. This scene is pivotal as it shifts the narrative towards deepening connections and feelings. After this encounter, Leonardo’s world feels a little brighter, hinting at the romantic undertones that will develop.

Context: This moment marks the first connection between Leonardo and Gabriel, introducing fundamental themes of friendship and potential romance while emphasizing Leonardo's desire for companionship beyond his disability.

The School Dance

At the school dance, tension and excitement fill the air. Leonardo, feeling brave, decides to attend despite his insecurities. The atmosphere is lively, yet Leonardo feels out of place. The pivotal moment occurs when Gabriel invites him to dance, allowing Leonardo to experience joy and connection in a way he hasn’t before. The visuals of the dance, combined with the sounds of laughter and music, create a magical moment. This experience shifts Leonardo’s self-perception and opens up his heart, deepening the film’s exploration of acceptance and love. The dance becomes a metaphor for stepping out of one's comfort zone.

Context: This dance serves as a pivotal social moment, showcasing the evolving dynamics between Leonardo and Gabriel, while also highlighting themes of acceptance and youthful innocence.

Leonardo's Revelation

Leonardo sits alone in his room, feeling overwhelmed by his feelings for Gabriel. He reflects on their moments together and his growing affection. The tension rises as he realizes that he wants more than friendship. The pivotal moment occurs when he explicitly acknowledges his feelings out loud for the first time, a significant step in his self-awareness. The scene uses subtle sounds from the outside to highlight his solitude, enhancing the emotional weight. This revelation changes Leonardo’s trajectory as he grapples with his identity and what it means to love someone. It is a moment of self-acceptance, and viewers feel the weight of his struggle.

Context: This moment is crucial as it shows Leonardo's internal conflict and his journey toward self-acceptance and love, which are core themes of the film.

The Confrontation

Leonardo's jealousy surfaces when he sees Gabriel with another girl. The tension builds as he wrestles with his emotions, feeling hurt and confused. The pivotal moment comes when he confronts Gabriel, expressing his feelings of betrayal and fear of losing him. The raw emotions in their exchange highlight the complexity of their relationship. This scene illustrates the struggles of adolescent love and jealousy, deepening the narrative as Leonardo must confront both his feelings and his fears. After this confrontation, both characters are forever changed, realizing the importance of honesty in their relationship.

Context: This confrontation is a climactic moment that emphasizes the challenges of teenage relationships, revealing how love can be intertwined with jealousy and fear.

The Heartfelt Apology

After their confrontation, Leonardo reflects on his actions and feels remorseful. He seeks out Gabriel to apologize. The build-up is filled with anxiety, as Leonardo worries about whether Gabriel will forgive him. The pivotal moment occurs during their conversation when Leonardo expresses his true feelings honestly. The honesty in his words and vulnerability resonate deeply. The emotions are palpable as the audience feels the weight of both characters’ experiences. This moment helps solidify their bond, reminding viewers of the importance of communication in relationships.

Context: This scene is critical as it showcases the healing process between Leonardo and Gabriel, emphasizing themes of honesty and the complexities of emotional connections.

The Kiss

In a tender moment, Leonardo and Gabriel share their first kiss. The build-up is intense, filled with anxious energy as both characters lean in, unsure yet hopeful. The pivotal moment occurs as their lips meet, representing a culmination of their emotional journey. The visuals emphasize their closeness and the world fading away around them, enhancing the intimacy of the moment. This scene signifies the blossoming of their relationship and the acceptance of their feelings. After the kiss, there’s a sense of euphoria mixed with vulnerability, leaving viewers with a heartwarming feeling of joy.

Context: This kiss marks a major turning point in their relationship, reflecting the central theme of love conquering fears and insecurities.

Leonardo's Family Dinner

During a family dinner, Leonardo's parents discuss his future and how they worry for him. The tension grows as Leonardo feels misunderstood and frustrated. The pivotal moment occurs when he stands up for himself, asserting his independence. This moment is significant as it reflects Leonardo's growth and determination to live life on his own terms. The emotional weight of the scene resonates, as viewers feel both the warmth of familial love and the struggle for personal freedom. The aftermath sees Leonardo gaining more confidence, deepening his individual character arc.

Context: This scene highlights the struggle between family expectations and personal desires, emphasizing the theme of independence in the face of parental concern.

The Visit with the Teacher

Leonardo visits a teacher to discuss his plans for the future. The atmosphere is tense, filled with uncertainty about what lies ahead. The pivotal moment comes when the teacher encourages Leonardo to pursue his dreams and not be limited by his blindness. This heartfelt exchange provides empowerment and hope, reinforcing the film's themes of ambition and self-belief. The aftermath of this conversation invigorates Leonardo, as he feels inspired to take control of his destiny. Viewers experience a surge of motivation, feeling hopeful for Leonardo’s journey.

Context: This visit emphasizes the importance of mentorship and empowerment, crucial themes in Leonardo's personal growth and determination to challenge societal norms.

Gabriel's Support

Gabriel surprises Leonardo by showing up to support him during a crucial moment in a school event. The build-up showcases Leonardo's anxiety and fear of being judged. The pivotal moment happens when Gabriel stands by his side, showcasing their deep bond. This moment of solidarity conveys powerful messages about friendship and loyalty. The emotional resonance of Gabriel's support strengthens their connection and reinforces the idea of standing by loved ones in difficult times.

Context: This scene solidifies the theme of friendship and the importance of support in relationships, emphasizing how love can lift one another during challenging moments.

The Reflection

Leonardo reflects on his journey while sitting by a window, contemplating his feelings and experiences. The atmosphere is serene, allowing for introspection. The pivotal moment happens as he embraces his true self, realizing self-acceptance is key to happiness. The visuals of the world outside the window contrast with his internal struggle, showcasing his growth. This moment reshapes the audience's understanding of Leonardo as he matures and evolves. The emotional weight emphasizes hope and the beauty of self-discovery.

Context: This reflection highlights the importance of self-acceptance and understanding one’s identity, a core theme in Leonardo's development throughout the film.

The Final Goodbye

In a poignant scene, Leonardo and Gabriel must part ways as they transition to different phases in their lives. The build-up is filled with sadness and uncertainty. The pivotal moment occurs when they share heartfelt words, reflecting on their journey together. This goodbye is emotional, filled with both gratitude and sorrow as they acknowledge the impact they’ve had on each other's lives. The moment encapsulates the bittersweet nature of growing up and moving on. The emotional catharsis leaves viewers with a mix of nostalgia and hope.

Context: This farewell serves as a powerful conclusion to their journey, emphasizing themes of growth, change, and the lasting impact of first love.

Leonardo's Speech

At an important school event, Leonardo bravely steps up to give a speech about his experiences. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The pivotal moment occurs when he speaks about overcoming obstacles and the importance of being true to oneself. Leonardo's words resonate with authenticity, inspiring those around him. This scene showcases his transformation from a shy boy to a confident young man eager to share his story. The emotional response is uplifting, as viewers feel proud and inspired by his journey.

Context: This moment emphasizes the theme of empowerment and the importance of self-expression, marking a significant milestone in Leonardo's character development.

Finding Freedom

Leonardo takes a solo trip to a place he’s always dreamed of visiting. The atmosphere is liberating, filled with excitement and nervousness. The pivotal moment occurs when he immerses himself in new experiences, feeling truly alive and free. This sense of freedom is visually stunning, with beautiful landscapes filling the screen. The aftermath deepens Leonardo's understanding of himself and the world outside. The emotional resonance evokes joy and liberation, as viewers feel the thrill of discovery alongside him.

Context: This scene highlights the theme of exploration and independence, reinforcing Leonardo’s journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.

The Unexpected Reunion

Leonardo unexpectedly runs into Gabriel years after their separation. The build-up is filled with nostalgia and excitement. The pivotal moment occurs when they reconnect and reminisce about their past. Their laughter and shared memories bring a sense of warmth and familiarity, showcasing how their bond has endured. This moment emphasizes the lasting impact of love and friendship across time. Viewers feel a rush of joy and sentimentality, reminding them of the beauty of cherished relationships.

Context: This reunion reinforces the film's themes of lasting connections and how love can transcend time and distance, highlighting human emotions’ depth.

Life's Challenges

Leonardo faces an unexpected challenge in his life, testing his resolve and strength. The atmosphere is heavy with tension as he grapples with uncertainty. The pivotal moment occurs when he decides to confront the obstacle head-on instead of retreating. This act of bravery showcases his character growth and determination. The audience feels a surge of admiration and empathy, rooting for him as he navigates hardship. This moment emphasizes resilience and the importance of facing life's challenges.

Context: This scene contributes to the theme of perseverance, illustrating how Leonardo's journey continues beyond romantic relationships into broader life experiences.

The Artistic Expression

Leonardo explores his passion for art, creating a piece that reflects his journey. The atmosphere is filled with creativity and inspiration. The pivotal moment occurs when he puts his heart into the artwork, pouring his emotions onto the canvas. This symbolic act represents his growth and self-acceptance. The visuals of his art convey a deep sense of connection with his inner self. Viewers will feel pride and admiration for his vulnerability and creativity.

Context: This scene emphasizes the theme of art as expression and healing, showcasing how creativity can be a powerful outlet for emotions and experiences.

The Celebration of Love

Leonardo celebrates with friends and family at a joyous event, marking a milestone in his life. The atmosphere is filled with laughter and happiness. The pivotal moment occurs when he shares a heartfelt toast, acknowledging the importance of love in his life. This celebration signifies his growth and acceptance of his journey, and the visuals radiate warmth and joy. Viewers feel an overwhelming sense of happiness, celebrating alongside him.

Context: This scene encapsulates the themes of love and community, reinforcing the importance of relationships and support in one's journey through life.

The Letter of Reflection

Leonardo writes a letter to himself, reflecting on his journey and aspirations. The build-up captures his thoughtful introspection. The pivotal moment comes when he commits to following his dreams, signifying personal growth and determination. This moment serves as an internal promise, emphasizing the importance of self-belief. The emotional resonance is profound, as viewers witness his journey toward building a future filled with hope and purpose.

Context: This letter symbolizes self-empowerment and dreaming big, reinforcing the personal growth themes threaded throughout Leonardo's story.

The Final Scene

In the closing moments of the film, Leonardo steps into a future filled with possibilities, holding Gabriel’s hand. The atmosphere is hopeful and bright. The pivotal moment occurs as they exchange knowing smiles, powerful in their unspoken understanding and bond. This scene encapsulates the film’s themes of love, acceptance, and growth. The visuals of the open road ahead symbolize a new beginning full of promise. Viewers are left with a sweet sense of closure and optimism, feeling uplifted by their journey.

Context: This final scene ties together the central themes of the film, leaving audiences with a reminder of the beauty of love, friendship, and the ongoing journey of life.


Download App

Casting Change

The lead role was originally intended for an actor who ultimately dropped out due to scheduling conflicts, leading to Ghilherme Lobo being cast just a few weeks before filming started.

Why it matters: This last-minute casting change resulted in Lobo infusing a fresh sense of authenticity to the character, which resonated strongly with audiences and contributed to the film's emotional depth.

Authentic Representation

Screenwriter and director Daniel Ribeiro drew from his own experiences as a visually impaired person when crafting the narrative and character arcs, ensuring a genuine representation of disability.

Why it matters: This personal touch enriched the film's portrayal of blindness, enabling the narrative to challenge stereotypes and foster greater understanding, making it a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ cinema.

Improvised Dialogue

Many scenes featured improvised dialogue, allowing the actors to express natural emotions and reactions, which was particularly evident in the interactions between Leonardo and Gian.

Why it matters: The spontaneity added layers of authenticity to their relationship, enhancing the film's emotional resonance and making it feel relatable and genuine.

On-Location Filming

Filming took place in São Paulo, Brazil, with the city serving as a vibrant backdrop, which was integral to the film’s setting and mood.

Why it matters: The real locations contributed to the script's authenticity, as they helped ground the characters' experiences in a relatable environment, adding to the film's overall aesthetic.

Collaborative Teamwork

The production team maintained a close collaboration with accessibility consultants to ensure that the depiction of blindness was respectful and accurate.

Why it matters: This collaboration fostered a more realistic portrayal of the central character's challenges, demonstrating a commitment to authenticity that resonated with both audiences and critics.

Director's Vision

Daniel Ribeiro wanted to focus on a coming-of-age theme that highlighted personal growth in the context of disability and sexuality, which is often overlooked in film.

Why it matters: This clear vision ensured that the narrative became a rich tapestry of experiences, resonating deeply with viewers on multiple levels and contributing to the film’s critical acclaim.

Symbolism of Light

The use of lighting throughout the film was symbolic, representing the main character’s journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.

Why it matters: This meticulous attention to lighting not only enhanced the visual storytelling but also added layers of meaning that invited audiences to engage more deeply with the narrative.

Unique Sound Design

The sound design was thoughtfully crafted to reflect the protagonist’s perspective, incorporating both diegetic and non-diegetic sounds to create an immersive experience.

Why it matters: This approach allowed audiences who could not see to engage with the film more fully, while also enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.

Strong Character Development

The character arcs were carefully structured, allowing for substantial growth and transformation that mirrored real-life experiences of adolescence.

Why it matters: This careful development created a resonant emotional pull for viewers, making the characters more relatable and their journeys authentic.

Choreographed Movements

To authentically portray a blind character, actor Ghilherme Lobo engaged in extensive training and rehearsal for navigating spaces without sight.

Why it matters: This preparation resulted in a more realistic portrayal, allowing Lobo to embody the character’s challenges authentically and enhancing the film's credibility.

Cinematic Influences

The film drew inspiration from various coming-of-age films, particularly highlighting the works of Pedro Almodóvar, which influenced its narrative style and emotional depth.

Why it matters: These influences created a richer narrative fabric, connecting with the audience through familiar cues while still presenting a unique story.

Emphasis on Friendship

Friendship between the main characters was a central theme, which was emphasized and explored in various scenarios throughout the film.

Why it matters: The heartfelt portrayal of their bond created a strong emotional foundation, allowing viewers to invest in their relationship and its evolution.

Film Festival Success

After winning awards at several film festivals, including the Berlin International Film Festival, the film gained increased visibility and critical acclaim.

Why it matters: The accolades helped solidify its reputation as a groundbreaking film in LGBTQ+ cinema, encouraging wider discussions about representation.

Realistic School Environment

The school scenes were filmed in working classrooms with actual students and faculty present to create a vibrant, authentic school atmosphere.

Why it matters: This realism added an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative, firmly rooting the characters in a tangible world that mirrored their challenges.

Cultural Insights

The script reflects Brazilian cultural nuances, particularly in terms of family dynamics and social expectations regarding sexuality and disability.

Why it matters: These elements made the film not only a personal story but also a culturally significant commentary, enhancing its relatability for local audiences.

Casting of Gian

The character of Gian was specifically cast to reflect a contrast to Leonardo, emphasizing differing perspectives on life and relationships.

Why it matters: This casting choice enriched the narrative, showcasing a dynamic interplay between the characters that enhanced their development and the film's central themes.

Personal Struggles

Ribeiro included elements of his own personal struggles with identity and prejudice to inform the script’s emotional authenticity.

Why it matters: This personal investment elevated the narrative’s impact, making it resonate with audiences who faced similar experiences.

Intimate Cinematography

The cinematographer used intimate close-ups during pivotal emotional moments to enhance the connection between the characters and the audience.

Why it matters: These visual choices profoundly deepened audience empathy and connection, elevating emotional engagement in critical scenes.

Musical Influence

The soundtrack featured contemporary Brazilian music that aligned with the film's themes of adolescence, love, and identity.

Why it matters: The music accentuated the film's emotional beats and contributed to the overall atmosphere, reinforcing its themes in a culturally relevant way.

Emphasis on Visual Metaphors

The film utilized visual metaphors, such as the frequent biking scenes, representing freedom and the journey of self-discovery.

Why it matters: These metaphors added depth to the storytelling, compelling viewers to look for meaning beyond the dialogue and action.

Casting Non-professional Actors

Some roles were filled with non-professional actors to ensure authentic performances, particularly in supporting roles.

Why it matters: This choice enhanced the film's realism, contributing to its emotional authenticity and making the world feel more alive and relatable.


Download App

The Social Media App for Movie & TV Enthusiasts
👉 Reelive App 👈

No mods, no censorship—just a space to relive epic movie moments. Like Reddit, but made for movie lovers.

Download App

Close Encounters of the Third Kind

McFarland, USA

Black Swan