Anne+: A Heartfelt but Uneven Exploration of Identity

The opening shot of Anne+: The Film lingers on Hanna van Vliet’s face, her eyes a storm of uncertainty as she stares at the manuscript in her hands. It’s a moment that encapsulates the film’s central question: What does Anne want? Directed by Valerie Bisscheroux and adapted from the popular web series, this Dutch drama follows Anne (van Vliet) as she grapples with identity, love, and artistic purpose just before moving to Montreal to be with her partner Sara (Jouman Fattal). The film’s premise is intriguing—a young woman on the cusp of a major life change, torn between her personal ambitions and her romantic commitments—but its execution is uneven.

At its best, Anne+: The Film delivers a heartfelt exploration of queer love and self-discovery. Van Vliet’s performance is the film’s anchor, grounding the emotional turmoil of Anne’s journey. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure makes Anne a compelling protagonist. The chemistry between van Vliet and Fattal is palpable, particularly in scenes where their relationship is tested by distance and doubt. Their quiet, tender moments—like a shared coffee in a dimly lit café or a late-night conversation under the stars—are some of the film’s most affecting.

The supporting cast also brings depth to the story. Thorn de Vries as Lou, Anne’s best friend, provides much-needed comic relief and emotional support. De Vries’ performance is nuanced, balancing humor with genuine concern for Anne’s well-being. Eline van Gils as Lily and Jesse Mensah as Max add layers to Anne’s social circle, making her world feel lived-in and real. The ensemble’s dynamics are one of the film’s standout strengths, creating a sense of community that resonates with the audience.

However, Anne+: The Film stumbles in its narrative focus. The story meanders at times, struggling to balance Anne’s personal journey with the broader themes of identity and self-discovery. Some subplots feel underdeveloped, and the pacing occasionally drags. For instance, the film’s exploration of Anne’s novel and her struggles as a writer could have been more tightly woven into the main narrative. Instead, it often feels like an afterthought, a device to add tension rather than a genuine reflection of Anne’s inner conflict.

Visually, Bisscheroux’s direction is solid but unremarkable. The cinematography is functional, with a few standout shots that capture the emotional weight of Anne’s journey. One particularly effective scene is a long take of Anne walking through Amsterdam’s streets, her thoughts and fears playing out on her face as she passes by iconic landmarks. The sound design and score are equally competent, though they rarely elevate the material beyond its straightforward presentation.

The film’s greatest strength lies in its performances and its exploration of queer love and identity. It’s a story that needed to be told, but it’s not always clear what Bisscheroux and screenwriter Maud Wiemeijer want to say with it. The genre fit is solid—it’s a heartfelt drama with romantic elements—but it lacks the sharpness or originality to stand out in a crowded field.

Comparisons to other queer dramas are inevitable, but Anne+: The Film doesn’t quite measure up to the likes of The Half of It or Signature Move. Those films managed to blend romance, comedy, and social commentary with a deft touch. Anne+: The Film, on the other hand, feels more like a straightforward coming-of-age story with a queer twist. It’s a worthy watch for its performances and emotional resonance, but it’s far from essential viewing.

The film’s target audience is likely young adults who have experienced similar existential crises or are navigating their own identities. Fans of the original web series will appreciate the continuation of Anne’s story, but newcomers might find the narrative somewhat unfocused. The film’s Dutch setting and language might also limit its appeal to a broader international audience.

In conclusion, Anne+: The Film is a well-acted and emotionally resonant drama that explores themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. However, its narrative meandering and lack of originality prevent it from standing out in the genre.