I Like Movies (2022) is a charming and insightful Canadian comedy-drama that offers a poignant look at adolescence, obsession, and human connection through the lens of cinema. The film follows Lawrence Kweller, a brilliantly portrayed 17-year-old cinephile whose encyclopedic knowledge of movies far exceeds his social skills. When he lands a job at a local video store, his world expands through a complicated, mentorship-like friendship with his older female manager, Alana, played with nuanced depth.

Set against the nostalgic backdrop of early 2000s video store culture, the film explores themes of loneliness, ambition, and the sometimes painful gap between artistic passion and personal maturity. Director Chandler Levack delivers a sharply observed character study that balances genuine humor with emotional weight, avoiding clichés to present an authentic coming-of-age narrative. The performances are uniformly excellent, with the lead capturing Lawrence's irritating yet endearing intensity perfectly.

What makes I Like Movies worth watching is its heartfelt specificity and refusal to sentimentalize its protagonist's journey. It's a film for anyone who has ever loved movies deeply, struggled with social awkwardness, or navigated the tricky transition into adulthood. With its smart writing, relatable characters, and warm yet clear-eyed direction, this gem offers both laughs and genuine pathos, making it a rewarding watch for fans of character-driven indie cinema.