A 'truly brilliant' period drama that likely escaped your notice is now available for streaming. This coming-of-age comedy, originally released in 2020, boasts an impressive 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film in question is Dating Amber, currently streaming on Prime Video.
Plot and Characters
The touching LGBTQ+ story follows teenagers Amber and Eddie, both gay, as they struggle to fit into their rural Irish town in the late 1990s. Amber, a lesbian, is counting down the days until she can move to a liberal city like London, while Eddie is still coming to terms with his sexuality. After facing persistent homophobic abuse from their peers, the classmates start a fake relationship to avoid questions about their respective sexualities. The duo soon sparks a sweet friendship as they embark on their journeys of self-acceptance.
Cast and Crew
Behind the camera, David Freyne serves as writer and director, bringing relatable characters to life with a talented cast. Dublin-born star Fionn O'Shea plays main character Eddie, while Lola Petticrew from Say Nothing portrays Amber. The pair is joined by other recognisable talents, including Sharon Horgan and Barry Ward from Bad Sisters. Fans will also spot Art Campion from Derry Girls in the cast.
Critical Reception
Critics were thoroughly impressed by the dramedy, awarding it a rare Certified Fresh rating, while viewers gave it a slightly less generous 84% score. One fan shared a five-star review, stating: 'Comic and heart-warming movie, great actors and a brutal storyline. You will not regret watching it.' A second added: 'What an unexpected gem! The best portrayal of being a gay kid in the 90s I've ever seen, and great to see a friendship between a gay boy and gay girl celebrated, as it's a dynamic that's still relatively unexplored in film.'
User Reviews
IMDb users showered the film with '10/10' ratings, with one describing it as 'truly brilliant.' Another casual moviegoer said: 'Beautifully told. Beautifully acted. Not at all cloying or preachy. A new favourite for sure. Ps. If you liked Derry Girls you will like this! (And vice versa!).'
Dating Amber is streaming now on Prime Video.
