𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐲 𝐇𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 (𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟒)

The Way He Looks (Hoje Eu Quero Voltar Sozinho) is a 2014 Brazilian coming-of-age romantic drama directed by Daniel Ribeiro. The film is an expansion of Ribeiro’s acclaimed 2010 short film I Don't Want to Go Back Alone (Eu Não Quero Voltar Sozinho), which gained popularity for its tender portrayal of a blind teenager discovering his independence and first love.

This full-length adaptation deepens the story, providing more insight into the protagonist's emotional journey, friendships, and challenges. The film stands out for its subtle storytelling, natural performances, and representation of LGBTQ+ themes in a refreshing and optimistic way.

The story follows Leonardo (Ghilherme Lobo), a blind teenager who dreams of independence. He has a strong friendship with Giovana (Tess Amorim), who often assists him in navigating their daily life, from walking home from school to dealing with their classmates. However, Leo struggles with feeling overprotected, not just by his parents but also by Giovana, who sometimes treats him as fragile.

Leo’s world changes when Gabriel (Fabio Audi), a new student, arrives. Gabriel is kind, charming, and quickly forms a bond with both Leo and Giovana. However, as Leo and Gabriel grow closer, Giovana begins to feel left out, introducing tension into their trio.

As their friendship deepens, Leo starts to develop romantic feelings for Gabriel, though he is initially unsure of them. He also faces internal conflicts, as he is still learning to assert his independence and navigate his emotions. The turning point comes when Gabriel and Leo share an intimate moment, confirming that Gabriel has feelings for Leo too.

Through a heartfelt journey, Leo gains confidence in himself, embraces his identity, and takes a step toward independence—not just in mobility but in self-acceptance and love.

The Way He Looks received widespread critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling, strong performances, and positive representation of disability and LGBTQ+ themes. It won the Teddy Award for Best LGBTQ+ Feature Film at the 2014 Berlin International Film Festival, further cementing its impact in queer cinema.

Critics praised Ghilherme Lobo’s performance as Leonardo, highlighting his ability to portray Leo’s emotions with subtlety and depth. The chemistry between Lobo and Fabio Audi (Gabriel) was also widely appreciated, making their romance feel genuine and relatable.

The film resonated with audiences worldwide, particularly for its optimistic portrayal of young love and self-discovery. Unlike many LGBTQ+ films that center around rejection or tragedy, The Way He Looks offers a hopeful and uplifting story, making it a favorite among viewers looking for a positive queer narrative.

The Way He Looks is a beautifully crafted film that captures the essence of adolescence, self-discovery, and first love. Through its sensitive storytelling, it offers an inspiring message about independence, friendship, and embracing one’s identity.

Its legacy as a groundbreaking LGBTQ+ film continues to make it a must-watch for those seeking heartfelt and authentic representation. With its warm cinematography, strong performances, and tender narrative, The Way He Looks remains a standout coming-of-age film that leaves a lasting impression.