“i wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you.” if you’re a sad, lonely person who yearns for connection yet your insecurities and circumstances tear you away from that very love you long for (me), do NOT watch this unless you want one of the most gut-wrenching experiences ever. i love this story. i watched this almost immediately after reading the book. the words “love, friendship, and mutual fascination” on the back cover are what drew me to this. connell and marianne are two complex individuals, yet their development throughout couldn’t be done if it weren’t for the connection between them; they appeared when the other needed them most. yet despite that, both their external situations and internal conflicts prevent them from any permanency. even once healed/going through the healing process, they remain each other’s support system, encouraging them to reach their full potential. these characters—this story as a whole—feel so familiar. intimate. we know connell and marianne belong together, and we understand why they can’t be, but it doesn’t hurt any less. they learn about each other and, through that, learn about themselves. their devotion and affection for one another is unconditional, so much so that they let go the moment their insecurities take over in fear of ruining it all. the two find solace in one another, as well as taking pride in each other’s achievements. marianne learns love from connell, one where she isn’t objectified or mistreated, while connell receives her comfort and support. this connection was only meant to exist at certain parts throughout their journey, not as the destination itself. they meet, they learn, they grow, and they heal; it wasn’t meant to last forever, but the feelings will always linger. as heartbreaking these kinds of stories are, they remain so prevalent and raw. genuine true love, even if it may not last, is meant to change a person forever. our hearts and minds are touched by all those we come across, for better or for worse. sometimes, all it takes is one individual to cross our path to completely change the course of our lives. “you know i love you. and i’m never gonna feel the same way for anyone else.”