Heartstopper Forever delivers an emotional farewell

The highly anticipated final chapter of the Heartstopper TV series, Heartstopper Forever, has been released. Having transcended its graphic novel, Heartstopper has gained immense popularity over the years. After three successful seasons, the series said its last “hi” with a 90-minute film that sends Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), Nick Nelson (Kit Connor), and their friends into their awaiting futures. The story has grown and developed from a sweet school romance to a raw, emotional plot about growing up.

Heartstopper Forever explores what happens when ‘first love’ meets adulthood. As Nick and Charlie imagine futures that don’t always prioritise each other, the film makes us question whether love can survive change and growing up. The film differs from the series in its acknowledgement that relationships aren’t perfect and communication and trust are just as important as idealistic romance.

The film explores the idea of soulmates, and how despite loving each other, you can lose sight of what’s in front of you

The film opens with Nick’s final year at school, and a lot has changed since we last saw the characters. Charlie is running for Head Boy, working through problems which have defined him in the past. However, Nick is struggling to show up for Charlie, as he does not feel as central to Charlie’s life as he once did. The film explores the idea of soulmates, and how despite loving each other, you can lose sight of what’s in front of you.

The main focus of this film is Nick and Charlie, despite the inclusion of characters and the variety of relationships we saw in the series. Therefore, if you’re hoping for any big storylines from anyone else, you’ll be disappointed. While we see snippets of Tao and Elle’s evolving relationship, and Tara and Darcy planning for the future, it is evident that this film prioritises Nick and Charlie, even if it means some of the other storylines are blurry.

Image: Netflix

Visually, the film keeps the warm and comforting style that has attracted fans over the years. In particular, the familiar animated doodles help preserve the hopeful atmosphere and remain in touch with Alice Oseman’s graphic novels.

No one can deny that Kit Connor and Joe Locke deliver beautiful performances. Their chemistry is the heart of this film, truly giving these characters the journey and ending they deserve. Both actors have grown in popularity since the release of the first series of Heartstopper, and they both certainly have bright careers ahead of them. It was refreshing to see them as executive producers on this film and see them assist in bringing this amazing story to a conclusion.

What is most important about this film, is the message … Heartstopper has helped young LGBTQ+ people feel more included, valued and deserving of love

This film certainly takes viewers on a journey, from an emotional breakup to reconciliations and a hopeful future, but what is most important about this film is the message Heartstopper has been spreading since it the series was first released. Heartstopper has helped young LGBTQIA+ people feel more included, valued, and deserving of love. Through the simple plot of two boys falling in love, Alice Oseman has created a world where love, no matter the gender, should be celebrated, and that is something incredibly special. I truly believe this franchise will be remembered for decades as something young people look to for comfort.

While some viewers may wish more time had been devoted to the supporting characters, these compromises allow the emotional core of Nick and Charlie’s relationship to remain the focus and let the true message shine. Few coming-of-age stories have connected with audiences in this way. We can forever be grateful to Heartstopper for proving that everyone deserves to feel seen and loved.

★★★★