Watch Being Thomas

Being Thomas is a thought-provoking drama film that revolves around a young man named Thomas (Alan Trong) who is about to turn 17. He struggles with social anxiety disorder, which makes it difficult for him to communicate and connect with people. He lives in a small town in the US with his mother and younger sister, and his life changes when a new family moves in next door.

One day, Thomas meets the son of the new family, a young man named Benjamin (Timothy Englert), and they quickly become friends. Unlike Thomas, Benjamin is outgoing and social, and he encourages Thomas to come out of his shell and explore the world. However, their friendship is tested when Thomas discovers that Benjamin has a dark secret that he has been hiding from everyone.

As the story unfolds, we see Thomas struggling with his own demons while trying to help Benjamin. He also has to deal with his own family issues, including his absent father and his overprotective mother. The film explores themes of friendship, identity, mental illness, and the struggle to find one's place in the world.

One of the strengths of Being Thomas is the excellent performances by the lead actors. Alan Trong delivers a nuanced and sensitive portrayal of Thomas, capturing the character's anxiety and vulnerability with great skill. Timothy Englert is also impressive as Benjamin, bringing a contrasting energy and charisma to the film.

The film is also visually striking, with director Mario S. Novas using a naturalistic approach to capture the small-town setting and the characters' emotional states. The use of hand-held cameras and close-ups creates an intimate and immersive experience, allowing the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

The story itself is engaging and thought-provoking, and it raises important questions about mental health and the stigma surrounding it. The film doesn't shy away from the difficulties that come with mental illness, and it offers a realistic and empathetic look at the struggles that people with anxiety disorders face. At the same time, the film is also hopeful, showing that with the right support and understanding, individuals can overcome their challenges and find resilience and strength within themselves.

Overall, Being Thomas is an engaging and heartfelt film that explores important themes with sensitivity and insight. It is a must-see for anyone who has struggled with anxiety or mental illness, or for anyone who wants to better understand the experiences of those who do. With its excellent performances, naturalistic style, and compelling story, Being Thomas is a film that deserves to be seen and appreciated.

Being Thomas is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 8 hours.