Cristiana Moldovan (11) | STAFF REPORTER
Heartstopper Season 1 has graced our screens with its captivating love story for just over 20 days, but to all those YA Romance book lovers, this story is already a familiar favourite. Alice Oseman first published her graphic novel in 2019, and it quickly gained traction.
The show follows two teen boys, Charlie and Nick, who, although they have been going to the same school for years, had never met before. Until one day, they sit together in form, and a beautiful friendship turns into a beautiful young romance.
But the plot doesn’t begin and end with this queer love story, also part of the friend group is Elle, a trans girl who’s just figuring out life at a new school, Darcy and Tara, who’ve just begun dating, Tao, a movie buff dealing with his changing friend group, and Isaac a die-hard book lover.
The show follows a very similar format to that of the graphic novel. Each new chapter in Charlie and Nick’s story is marked by a cartoonish title card, and each endearing moment is decorated with whimsical drawings.
The story navigates mental health, relationship, and friendship problems, first loves, and everything in between, all brought to life by the heartwarming cast. Nick Nelson, a rugby superstar, played by Kit Connor, is known for playing young Elton John in Rocketman, and Joe Locke, who made his acting debut in Heartstopper. They perform alongside the rest of the cast, with special appearances by Oscar winner, Olivia Coleman, bringing the show to life and always leaving you wanting more.
In its first month, the show has exceeded any expectations of success, and has gained overwhelming support. The representation included in this show is almost unprecedented and extremely important in our ever-progressing world.
If you’re like me and have binged the entire season in one day, and are currently experiencing withdrawals, do not fret. The story comes in 4 volumes, plus extras! However, for the time being, it looks like we’ll have to sit tight and wait for that Season 2 announcement.
