Every now and then, a coming-of-age film surfaces that doesn’t follow the usual formula. Writer/director Sean Wang’s Dìdi is just that – a refreshingly honest look at growing up, seen through the lens of a young Asian immigrant painfully bumbling through his existence. 

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Unlike the typical teen dramedy, Dìdi veers into slice-of-life territory, where things don’t unfold the way you expect. Instead, we’re given a story that feels as awkward and bittersweet as adolescence itself.

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At the center is Chris Wang (Izaac Wang), a high school freshman navigating the turmoil of identity, family, and social acceptance. Wang delivers one of the most authentic performances of the year, seamlessly embodying the awkwardness of a teenager with bad acne, braces, and a desperation to fit in. Chris’s journey is about much more than trying to be cool – it’s a relatable and painful exploration of neglecting the people closest to us in the pursuit of something we think will bring true happiness.

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What sets Dìdi apart is its authenticity. Sean Wang’s direction, combined with a documentary-like filming style, pulls you so deeply into Chris’s world that it feels less like a movie and more like you’re living alongside him. The realism is further enhanced by Joan Chen’s beautifully understated performance as Chris’s mother, a role filled with quiet strength and raw emotion.

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While Dìdi has echoes of other one-word teen classics like Superbad, Juno, and Booksmart, it stands alone thanks to its unique perspective. The immigrant experience, coupled with the universal awkwardness of adolescence, adds layers of depth to an already powerful narrative. The honesty in both the writing and acting makes some moments uncomfortable to watch – particularly as we see Chris stumble through many, many poor decisions – but that’s what makes the film feel so genuine.

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Elevated by a stellar cast, heartfelt writing, and a fantastic soundtrack, Dìdi isn’t just another coming-of-age movie – it’s a heartfelt, brave, and deeply personal film that will stick with you long after the credits roll. Sean Wang’s fresh voice behind the camera and Izaac Wang’s standout performance mark this as one of the year’s best films.

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It’s a must-watch for anyone looking for a poignant and beautifully crafted exploration of growing up, bad acne and bad choices included.