BEACH RATS is a digital age twist on the classic coming-of-age/sexual self-discovery tale. Young men who are not yet “out” or are unsure who or what they are looking for in a physical or romantic relationship can escape online, test the water and arrange to meet with more freedom, but perhaps no more security, than ever before. Perhaps the most memorable line is the observation that “When two girls make out it’s hot, when two guys make out it’s gay”. It’s interesting telling this story within this setting and subculture, one we haven’t seen much on film before (it’s a very different Brooklyn to the one we usually see on film). Unfortunately this also means we’re following the kinds of douchebags who socialise at vape bars when they’re not popping pills. I didn’t find Harris Dickinson the most convincing leading presence in this, but I’m sure he’ll get there, ditto the filmmakers, who show more promise than inspiration at the moment. SSP