Watch 50 Ways of Saying Fabulous

In the movie 50 Ways of Saying Fabulous, set in rural New Zealand in the 70s, we follow the story of 12-year-old Billy. He's a sensitive boy who doesn't quite fit in with the other boys in his small town due to his love for creating imaginative stories and daydreaming. Billy spends his summer days exploring the countryside with his best friend, tomboy Louise, who is equally ostracized by the other kids for her different interests. Despite their differences, they share a close bond and support each other in their struggles.

As they navigate their way through adolescence and the challenges of growing up, the dynamic between Billy and Louise becomes more complicated. Billy begins to develop feelings for his friend, but struggles with how to express them in a society where homosexuality is not accepted.

Meanwhile, Billy's home life is not much easier. His parents are struggling with their own relationship and the strains of running a farm, leaving Billy feeling neglected and alone.

Throughout the film, we see Billy and Louise's imaginations come to life through elaborate fantasy sequences, adding a magical element to their otherwise mundane surroundings.

As the summer draws to a close, the relationships between the characters come to a head. Billy must confront his own identity and the feelings he has for Louise, as well as his strained relationship with his parents.

The performances in the film are strong, particularly from the young leads Andrew Paterson and Harriet Beattie, who convey the complexities of their characters with subtlety and nuance. The supporting cast, including Jay Collins as the school bully, add depth and humor to the story.

The film is beautifully shot, capturing the picturesque landscapes of rural New Zealand, and the soundtrack features a mix of classic 70s hits and original music.

At its heart, 50 Ways of Saying Fabulous is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, friendship, and the struggles of growing up in a society that expects conformity. With its strong performances and beautiful cinematography, it's a must-watch for fans of indie cinema and heartfelt storytelling.