If there was ever an actual real-life summer that felt exactly like the movies, it has to have been the summer of 2018. There’s this association with summer as a time when very slow-paced, lazy, magic happens. Set during the (perfect) summer of 2018, Kokon shows a glimpse into the life of 14 year old Nora who slowly realizes she might be gay.

In many ways, it’s a very typical coming-of-age film. Aside from first coming out moments, friendship and- often complicated- sisterhood, it touches on topics such as diet culture, first crushes, first relationships, family struggles, being perceived as a somewhat odd teenager and the many ways in which adults can let a kid down. What makes the movie special though, is how well it depicts that very specific feeling of being so profound and philosophical, that only exists alongside growing up. So, while many of the dialogues and the imagery feel a little clichéd they do so in a very authentic coming-of-age way.

All of this is shown through very soft lighting and accompanied by a very fitting score. Often it feels like watching the memory of the protagonist more than the actual present tense. 

One of the aspects that feel a little uncomfortable while watching is the age gap between the protagonist and her crush. Although said to be only 2 years, it comes across as more and their story begins in a very hierarchical, mentor-style scene. Then again, the movie does show the actual person behind the protagonist’s crush as often problematic and dishonest and while the ending is very positive, it does not romanticize their relationship and instead allows for Nora to grow from it.

If you’re a fan of queer coming-of-age, slow-paced movies with soft lighting, Kreuzberg and the summer of 2018, then this movie might be a very nice pick for you.