“Just Friends” (2018) (Gewoon Vrienden) is a heartwarming Dutch romantic comedy-drama directed by Ellen Smit. The film beautifully captures the journey of two young men falling in love while exploring themes of family, cultural differences, and self-acceptance.
“Just Friends” centers on Joris (played by Josha Stradowski), a 22-year-old man who has recently experienced the emotional devastation of losing his father. His grief is compounded by his strained relationship with his overprotective mother. As Joris struggles with his emotions and his sense of identity, he meets Yad (played by Majd Mardo), a charming, free-spirited Syrian-Dutch man who comes into Jorisโ life unexpectedly.
Yad is hired by Jorisโ mother to help around the house. What begins as a simple working relationship soon evolves into something much deeper. Joris and Yad are drawn to each other, and their connection turns into a tender romance. However, their relationship faces several obstacles. Joris is still dealing with unresolved grief from his fatherโs death and a lack of emotional support from his family. At the same time, Yad struggles with his cultural background and the pressure of his conservative family, which places heavy expectations on him.
The film explores their blossoming relationship as they navigate these personal and cultural challenges. As their connection deepens, they both begin to question what it means to love and be loved in a world full of obstacles. From Yad’s struggle to reconcile his identity with his familyโs values to Joris’ journey of healing, “Just Friends” is a heartfelt exploration of love, self-discovery, and family dynamics.
“Just Friends” was well-received for its refreshing take on LGBTQ+ romance. The filmโs ability to balance humor with serious themes like grief, family conflict, and identity made it an emotionally engaging watch. Itโs often praised for its naturalistic portrayal of a relationship, avoiding melodrama in favor of showing genuine moments of connection and emotional complexity.
“Just Friends” is an uplifting and moving exploration of love, grief, and self-discovery. The film manages to capture the complexities of modern relationships and the struggles of reconciling oneโs personal identity with the pressures of family and cultural expectations. With its relatable characters, tender romance, and lighthearted moments, “Just Friends” is a must-watch for fans of LGBTQ+ cinema and anyone who enjoys heartfelt, character-driven stories.