Watch Blush

Blush (2015) is an emotional drama that explores the complexities of relationships, identity, and sexuality through the eyes of two young women living in Israel. The movie follows Naama (Sivan Noam Shimon) and her best friend, Dana (Hadas Jade Sakori), as they navigate the ups and downs of growing up and trying to figure themselves out.

The film opens with Naama and Dana goofing around and taking selfies in their school uniform. They seem carefree and happy, but as the story unfolds, we discover that Naama is struggling with her identity as a lesbian, while Dana is wrestling with her desire to please her religious parents while also wanting to pursue a career in music. Their friendship is tested as they attempt to help each other through their respective challenges.

One of the most striking things about Blush is the way it portrays the sexual tension between Naama and a girl named Avigail (Jade Sakori) who comes into Naama's life through an online chat room. We see Naama's desire and confusion as she grapples with her attraction to Avigail and what it means for her identity. The relationship between Naama and Avigail is tender and authentic, and it's refreshing to see such a nuanced and honest portrayal of same-sex attraction.

As the story progresses, we see the characters face difficult choices and emotional turmoil. Naama's parents are openly homophobic, which puts her in a difficult position as she tries to navigate her own feelings while keeping peace with her family. Meanwhile, Dana is pushed to the brink by the pressure to conform to her parents' expectations, and she turns to self-harm as a way of coping.

Despite the heavy subject matter, Blush is not a depressing movie. There are moments of humor, tenderness, and hope throughout the film. The soundtrack, which features a mix of Israeli and American indie music, is a highlight and adds to the movie's overall tone of youthful rebellion and exploration.

The acting in Blush is superb, particularly from the three main actors. Sivan Noam Shimon is incredibly talented, and her portrayal of Naama is authentic and moving. Hadas Jade Sakori brings nuance to her portrayal of Dana, and Dvir Benedek is excellent as Naama's older, troubled brother.

One of the things that sets Blush apart from other coming-of-age movies is its focus on the female experience. We see the characters deal with issues like body image, sexual harassment, and slut-shaming that are often ignored in films centered around male protagonists. The movie is a powerful reminder of the importance of telling diverse stories and giving voice to marginalized communities.

Overall, Blush is a beautiful and thought-provoking film that tackles complex issues with sensitivity and grace. It's a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the nuances of identity and sexuality, as well as anyone looking for an emotionally impactful drama with standout performances.

Blush is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.