Overview: A Warm, Authentic Slice-of-Life Queer Coming-of-Age Story
Spinning off from the acclaimed Dutch web and television series of the same name, Valerie Bisscheroux’s Anne+ (2021) expands the world of its titular heroine into a bright, contemporary feature-length film. Co-created by director Valerie Bisscheroux, lead actor Hanna van Vliet, and writer Maud Wiemeijer, the film offers a refreshingly grounded, celebratory look at twenty-something life in Amsterdam.
Rather than leaning into dramatic queer trauma or existential angst, Anne+ focuses on the relatable everyday friction of young adulthood: creative block, relationship commitments, identity evolution, and the scary transition into real independence.
The Narrative Setup
Anne (Hanna van Vliet) is a 24-year-old lesbian living in Amsterdam who seems to have her life smoothly mapped out. She has finished her first novel manuscript, lives in a cozy apartment, and is planning to move to Montreal to join her long-term girlfriend, Sara (Jouman Fattal).
However, as her departure date approaches, her carefully laid plans begin to fray:
Creative Crisis: Her publisher rejects her book draft, demanding more authenticity and heart, triggering an intense wave of self-doubt.
The Non-Binary Catalyst: She meets Lou (Thorn de Vries), a charismatic, non-binary drag artist who challenges Anne’s rigid perspectives on love, gender expression, and self-acceptance.
The Impending Move: As ties to her vibrant Amsterdam community tighten, Anne must confront whether moving across the ocean for a relationship is truly what she wants, or simply what is expected of her.
Authentic Queer Representation: The film stands out for its organic, joyous depiction of LGBTQ+ life in Amsterdam. Non-binary and trans characters are integrated naturally into the narrative without being reduced to mere plot points.
Visual & Musical Atmosphere: Bright, sun-drenched cinematography captures the cozy charm of Amsterdam's canals and nightlife, paired with a vibrant indie soundtrack that gives the film a breezy, energetic rhythm.
Hanna van Vliet's Anchor Performance: Carrying almost every scene, van Vliet gives Anne a flawed, deeply charming, and relatable quality that grounds her journey of self-discovery.
The Verdict
Anne+ (2021) is a warm, uplifting, and stylish addition to modern European queer cinema. It gracefully moves beyond traditional coming-out tropes to tell a story about coming-of-age—reminding audiences that finding yourself isn't a one-time event, but an ongoing process.
Final Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟☆ (4/5) – A charming, joyous, and beautifully performed Dutch drama that celebrates queer joy, community, and personal freedom.
