Watch Sebastian

Sebastian is a heartwarming coming-of-age film about the titular character, a shy and introverted teenager struggling to find his place in the world. Set in a picturesque coastal town in Peru, the movie follows Sebastian as he navigates the ups and downs of adolescence, all while dealing with the constant pressure from his overbearing mother.

At the start of the film, we see Sebastian as a talented violinist who dreams of attending a prestigious conservatory in Europe. However, his mother has other plans for him and pushes him to focus on his academics instead. Determined to pursue his passion, Sebastian begins attending secret violin lessons with an eccentric and reclusive teacher, who introduces him to a whole new world of music and self-expression.

As Sebastian's love for music grows, so does his confidence, and he begins to step out of his shell and connect with those around him. He develops a crush on one of his classmates, a bold and adventurous girl named Helena, and becomes friends with a group of musicians who share his passion for classical music.

But as Sebastian's world expands, so does the tension with his mother. She disapproves of his newfound interests and friendships, leading to several confrontations between the two. However, as the film progresses, we see a gradual thawing in their relationship as Sebastian becomes more sure of himself and his dreams.

The film is anchored by a fantastic performance from Carlos Ciurlizza in the lead role. He brings a quiet intensity to Sebastian, capturing the character's shyness and vulnerability while also conveying his growing confidence and passion for music. Katerina D'Onofrio is equally strong as Sebastian's mother, imbuing the character with both tough love and genuine concern for her son's future.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, particularly Burt Grinstead as the whimsical violin teacher and Sofía Rocha as Helena's free-spirited mother. The film also boasts stunning cinematography, highlighting the natural beauty of the coastal setting and adding to the film's overall dreamy, almost ethereal feel.

At its core, Sebastian is a film about the transformative power of music, as well as the importance of following your dreams and being true to yourself. Director and co-writer Carlos Ciurlizza infuses the film with a sense of authenticity and emotional honesty, creating a moving portrait of a young man discovering who he is and who he wants to be.

Overall, Sebastian is a touching and beautifully crafted film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. With its heartwarming story, exquisite performances, and breathtaking visuals, it is a must-see for fans of coming-of-age dramas and music lovers alike.

Sebastian is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes.