In the Dutch romantic drama Just Friends (Gewoon Vrienden), love blossoms in the most unexpected way between two young men from different backgrounds. Yad, a free-spirited medical student, returns to his conservative Dutch-Turkish family after a reckless period of partying and bad decisions. His parents, especially his strict mother, expect him to settle down and take life seriously. To prove himself, Yad takes a job as a caretaker for elderly clients, where fate leads him to Joris, a confident and charismatic young man.
Joris, on the other hand, comes from a wealthy but emotionally distant family. His father’s sudden passing left a void in his life, and his mother, still grieving, tries to cope through material distractions rather than emotional support. Joris masks his loneliness with an easygoing and flirtatious attitude, but beneath his charm lies a longing for real connection—something he never truly found in past relationships.
When Yad and Joris meet, their chemistry is undeniable. What begins as playful banter quickly evolves into something deeper. They challenge each other in ways they never expected—Yad, always cautious about his feelings, is drawn to Joris’s openness, while Joris finds himself captivated by Yad’s warmth and depth. However, love is never simple, especially when family expectations, cultural traditions, and personal insecurities stand in the way.
As their relationship intensifies, Yad struggles with his mother’s resistance to his sexuality. Coming from a traditional Turkish household, he fears disappointing his family, even though he knows his happiness should come first. Joris, too, faces his own emotional barriers, struggling with his mother’s inability to express love beyond material gestures. Their love story is not just about romance—it is about navigating the complexities of identity, family, and self-acceptance.
The film beautifully balances humor, passion, and heartfelt moments, making it more than just another LGBTQ+ love story. The witty dialogues and playful interactions between Yad and Joris make their relationship feel authentic and deeply relatable. Their journey is filled with tender moments, stolen kisses, and late-night conversations that reveal their fears, dreams, and desires.
What sets Just Friends apart is its refreshing take on love and cultural identity. It does not rely on clichés or unnecessary drama but instead focuses on genuine emotions and real-life struggles. The chemistry between the lead actors, Majd Mardo and Josha Stradowski, is electric, making every interaction between Yad and Joris feel raw and organic. Their performances breathe life into the characters, making the audience root for their love despite the obstacles.
As the story unfolds, Yad and Joris must decide whether their love is strong enough to overcome the pressures surrounding them. Will they find the courage to embrace their feelings and fight for their happiness? Or will fear and societal expectations keep them apart? The answer lies in their willingness to take a leap of faith.
Just Friends is a touching, vibrant, and deeply moving film that reminds us all that love knows no boundaries. It is a story of breaking free from expectations, finding comfort in someone’s arms, and realizing that the heart wants what it wants—no matter the obstacles.
