Dating Amber

Movie Trailer

Release Date
June 4, 2020

Genre
Comedy, Drama, LGBTQ+

Cast & Crew

• Fionn O’Shea as Eddie
• Lola Petticrew as Amber
• Sharon Horgan as Hannah
• Barry Ward as Ian
• Simone Kirby as Jill
• Evan O’Connor as Jack

Director
David Freyne

Other Movies Director is Known For

• The Cured (2017)
• Rialto (2019, writer)

Producer
Rachael O’Kane, John Keville

Writer
David Freyne

Budget
$3 million (estimated)

Production Company
Atomic 80 Productions, Altitude Film Entertainment

Running Time
92 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Strong language
• Mature themes including sexuality and identity
• Mild violence

Movie Story
“Dating Amber” is a heartfelt coming-of-age comedy-drama that explores the complexities of teenage identity, friendship, and the pressures of fitting in. Set in Ireland during the mid-1990s, the film follows Eddie (Fionn O’Shea) and Amber (Lola Petticrew), two teenagers struggling with their sexual identities in a conservative and judgmental society.

Eddie, a closeted gay teenager, is desperate to avoid the scrutiny and bullying he faces at school. Amber, who is also struggling with her sexuality, is equally eager to escape the small-town life that stifles her. The two form an unlikely alliance, pretending to date each other to deflect suspicion and allow themselves some space to figure out who they really are. The fake relationship serves as a shield against the ridicule and judgment of their peers, providing a sense of safety as they navigate the complexities of adolescence.

As Eddie and Amber grow closer, their friendship becomes the emotional core of the film. They provide each other with the support and understanding they can’t find elsewhere, helping one another confront their fears and embrace their true selves. However, the ruse begins to strain as both characters grapple with their own internal struggles and the realization that they can’t hide from the truth forever.

The film captures the awkwardness and confusion of teenage life with humor and sensitivity, blending comedy with poignant moments of self-discovery. Eddie and Amber’s journey is one of growth and acceptance, not just of their own identities but also of the fact that being true to oneself is more important than conforming to societal expectations.

“Dating Amber” is a story about the power of friendship and the courage it takes to live authentically. It’s a film that resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place or struggled to find their own path, offering a message of hope and empowerment.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Dating Amber” are minimal, as the film is grounded in its realistic portrayal of teenage life in 1990s Ireland. The production design and cinematography effectively capture the period setting, with attention to detail in the costumes, locations, and overall aesthetic that reflects the era. The focus is on the characters and their interactions, with the visual style supporting the emotional tone of the story.

Box Office Performance
“Dating Amber” had a limited theatrical release and was primarily distributed through streaming platforms. It received critical acclaim for its performances, particularly those of Fionn O’Shea and Lola Petticrew, as well as its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences. The film resonated with audiences for its blend of humor and heart, becoming a favorite in the coming-of-age genre.

Filming Locations

• County Kildare, Ireland
• Dublin, Ireland

Notable Quotes

• “Sometimes you need to pretend to be someone else to discover who you really are.” – Amber
• “We all want to fit in, but it’s the differences that make us who we are.” – Eddie

Behind-the-Scenes

• Director David Freyne drew from his own experiences growing up in Ireland to create an authentic and relatable story about the struggles of coming to terms with one’s identity in a conservative society.
• The chemistry between Fionn O’Shea and Lola Petticrew was praised by critics, with their performances being the emotional backbone of the film.

Awards

• Nominated for Best Film at the Irish Film & Television Awards (2021)
• Nominated for Best Actor (Fionn O’Shea) at the Irish Film & Television Awards (2021)

Final Verdict
“Dating Amber” is a touching and humorous exploration of teenage identity and friendship that offers a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre. With its strong performances, sharp writing, and heartfelt message, the film is a must-watch for anyone who has ever felt different or struggled with self-acceptance. It’s a celebration of being true to oneself and the transformative power of friendship.

IMDb Rating
7.0/10