More Than Friends: The Coming Out of Heidi Leiter

　　I was surprised with this movie. For what it essentially is, an After School Special, it is pretty well made. It would have been nice to have the characters fleshed out a little bit more, but this film is otherwise really well made. I would have liked to know a bit more about the personality of Heidi and her coming out to herself.
　　There is a wonderful balance between honesty and real life. Only a few points while watching did I get that "uncomfortable feeling." You know, that feeling you get while watching something and the story looses all plausibility and realism, that you can't bare to watch. I especially felt that way during the attack scene. That just seemed a bit far fetched, and I would think kissing your girlfriend after an attack would be difficult. One of the best surprises is to see Claire Danes, pre-My So-Called Life. She is such an honest and real actress, and her casting in this film, like everyone else, is dead on.
　　This film is not very dated either. If you were to watch this film with some teenagers, I really don't think they would be too detached. The only things that seem to really date this film are the music while at the prom (Born to Be Alive?), the outfit the real Heidi Leiter wears at the end of the film (dear God! I remember when vests and huge lapels were in!), and most dated is the talk show that the women appear on (very 90's talk show like Rikki Lake, Jenny Jones, etc.). Young viewers might have some issues with these aspects of the film, but even the most critical young viewers should be able to relate with ease.
　　Overall, this is a surprising 30 minute film and definitely not a waste of time. It is well made and honest, despite it's flaws. Its a great starting point for discussion and I really suggest tracking down this film to view. It airs infrequently on HBO Family, and I suggest seeking it out.