Parents' Guide to Young Hearts

Authentically awkward, this straightforward high school romance is about the challenge of keeping a relationship protected from divisive outside influences. Harper and Tilly's issues crop up once their inner circle becomes aware that they're in a relationship: Everyone has a snide opinion. Progressive, well-read, and self-confident, Harper has a sex-positive approach to her relationship with Tilly. She is, therefore, blindsided when she becomes the subject of rumors and lies. The fact that this all takes place in Portland serves as a reminder that, even in liberal enclaves, teens are in a constant tug of war between learning social boundaries and trying to gain status. They'll cut their friends down if it means gaining popularity points.

For adults, Young Hearts offers real insight into teen town. Sibling writer-directors Sarah and Zachary Ray Sherman tap into how real kids talk, interact, smoke, shame, and pressure each other. Liebling, just 17, delivers every look and line with a naturalness. He's the real standout here, with a grounded star power. A film about 14- and 15-year-olds having sex and getting high may shock some parents, but teens are more likely to shrug it off -- as in, "tell me something I don't know."