November 14, 2025

Dating Amber (2020) – Movie Review

“Dating Amber” is a tender, witty, and emotionally charged coming-of-age story that captures the chaos, confusion, and quiet beauty of discovering who you are. Set in 1990s Ireland—a time and place where being different often meant being isolated—the film follows two teenagers, Eddie and Amber, who create a fake relationship to stop the constant rumors about their sexuality. What begins as a simple pact slowly transforms into a deeply heartfelt bond as they navigate school pressure, family expectations, and the overwhelming fear of simply being themselves.

Eddie, struggling with the rigid expectations of his military-focused father, carries a quiet storm inside him. Amber, bold and unapologetic, hides her own loneliness behind a tough exterior. Together, they create a world where they can breathe, laugh, and temporarily escape the weight imposed by the people around them. Their chemistry is warm and effortless, and the film beautifully captures how friendship can become a lifeline when everything else feels like it’s collapsing.

The humor in the movie is sharp yet gentle, balancing the more serious themes with a sense of youthful rebellion. Moments of awkward dates, impulsive decisions, and chaotic school dances add a lighthearted charm that keeps the story from ever becoming too heavy. At the same time, every joke is rooted in truth, making the emotional punches that follow hit even harder. The writing shows incredible sensitivity as it moves between comedy and heartbreak with natural ease.

What makes “Dating Amber” truly special is its honest portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences in a time when acceptance was scarce. The film doesn’t rely on clichés or forced melodrama; instead, it highlights small, intimate moments—silent glances, shared secrets, and the inner turmoil of wanting to belong without losing yourself. Eddie and Amber’s journey is both deeply personal and universally relatable, reminding viewers of the courage it takes to grow up and the bravery required to live authentically.

The cinematography supports this emotional journey with soft tones and nostalgic visuals that perfectly capture the 90s setting. The soundtrack adds another layer of feeling, echoing the characters’ hidden fears and fleeting joys. Every frame feels purposeful, highlighting the contrast between the suffocating environment they’re trapped in and the rare moments of freedom they find together.

In the end, “Dating Amber” is more than just a teen drama—it is a powerful story about identity, friendship, and the search for self-acceptance in a world that often refuses to understand. It leaves viewers with a bittersweet warmth, celebrating the rare people who help us survive the hardest chapters of our youth. This film isn’t just watched; it’s felt deeply, lingering long after the credits roll.