Watch Cool Kids don't Cry

Cool Kids don't Cry is a heartwarming coming-of-age movie from the year 2012. It tells the story of 12-year-old Akkie (Hanna Obbeek), a spunky and athletic girl who is best friends with Joep (Nils Verkooijen) and has a major crush on the popular boy in her class, Jordi (Bram Flick). Along with her classmates, Akkie spends most of her time playing soccer, goofing around, and preparing for their upcoming Class 6 graduation ceremony.

However, everything changes when Akkie is diagnosed with leukemia after collapsing during a soccer match. Suddenly, she finds herself facing a very different kind of challenge - one that requires strength, courage, and the support of those around her. Despite her initial shock and fear, Akkie refuses to let her illness define her or break her spirit. She remains determined to live her life to the fullest, even if that means missing out on some of the things she loves most.

As Akkie begins her chemotherapy treatments and adjusts to life in the hospital, her relationships with Joep and Jordi become more complex. While Joep stands by her side and offers unwavering encouragement, Jordi initially struggles to understand how to act around her and often fails to grasp the gravity of her situation. Nonetheless, Akkie remains hopeful that she can continue to maintain her friendships and maybe even win the heart of the boy she admires.

Meanwhile, Akkie's parents (played by Loek Peters and Eva Van der Gucht) try to balance their own fears and worries with the need to stay strong for their daughter. They enlist the help of Akkie's kind and compassionate teacher, juf Ina (Elsie de Brauw), who becomes a pillar of support for Akkie and her friends. Together, they navigate the challenges of illness, friendship, and growing up.

Cool Kids don't Cry is a moving and poignant story that tackles difficult themes with grace and heart. Director Dennis Bots (who also co-wrote the screenplay with Karen van Holst Pellekaan) manages to balance the comedic and lighthearted moments of childhood with the weight of serious illness and mortality. The film never feels overly heavy-handed or manipulative, but instead offers a realistic and relatable portrayal of the challenges faced by children and families dealing with cancer.

Hanna Obbeek delivers a standout performance as Akkie, capturing both her infectious energy and her vulnerability. She never lets the character's illness define her, instead portraying Akkie as a well-rounded and complex individual who faces her challenges head-on. Nils Verkooijen is also impressive as Joep, balancing humor and sensitivity in his portrayal of a loyal friend trying to support his best mate. Fiona Livingston also portrays a memorable nurse called Annelies with whom Akkie builds a close relationship.

Overall, Cool Kids don't Cry is a powerful and affecting film that offers both laughs and tears. It is a celebration of friendship, courage, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The film is suitable for both adults and children alike, as it manages to capture the universal experience of growing up and facing life's challenges. If you're looking for a heartwarming and emotionally resonant movie, then Cool Kids don't Cry should definitely be on your list.