In the film world, where financing and audience size are often key factors, it is rather tricky to create something on the topic of coming out as gay - particularly with youngsters involved and erotic scenes/undertones. All this requires a piety balance, and, in my opinion, the director/co-writer Marco Kreuzpaintner and his colleague have succeeded in this. Solid script, development of characters, versatile scenes, and skillful performances starting from Robert Stadlober as Tobi have made Sommersturm smooth to follow, hopefully also for them who dislike gays or feel pity for the girls unable to get cute boys as they are (being) taken by other boys... Well, this Queerschlag gay youth rowing team seemed slightly odd to be, but apparently it was a way to bring this gay topic into light and contribute to funny moments in the film; as implicated above, for the boy-girl relations you feel sorry.All in all, a brave yet decent film, without slipping into unnecessary sensation or preaching. Definitely not for conservatives or religious persons.

This film is about two best friends in a rowing team going to train for a competition. They are faced with dramatic challenges and transformations, which changes their lives forever."Sommersturm" is a really beautiful film, both aesthetically and emotionally. The scenery is beautiful, the scene composition is beautiful, and the cinematography is artistic. Emotionally, the film is even more beautiful, as it explores the struggle of a teenage man who is coming to terms with his sexuality. Tobi's inner struggle is very well presented, and viewers can easily identify with the characters.The friendship between Tobi and Achim is warm and genuine, and their youthful energy radiates throughout the film. Their friendship is beautiful. Well, everything about this film is beautiful. "Sommersturm" is a gem and I hope there will be more films like this.

SommerStrum – SUMMERSTORM – CATCH IT ( B+ ) SommerStrum is very heartwarming German movie, which avoids the general clichés of Camp movies. It's a simple story about a boy trying to figure out what he exactly wants is quite endearing. I love the way whole movie progresses and the humor quotient and good characterization makes it really captivating. Robert Stadlober is good, he was as convincing as mean jealous friend and as Caring loving friend too. Kostja Ullmann is gorgeous, no wonder Robert Stadlober fall in love with him. The chemistry between these two is really good. Alicja Bachleda is really gorgeous and her emotional range in performance can be seen in the movie. I have seen her in "Ondine" as well where she was mesmerizing. Miriam Morgenstern did her part really well. All the other young cast was also did their part really well and brought the humor and fun into the movie. Overall, its really enjoyable, real and inspiring movie about something feeling Different. I loved every moment of the movie. Must Watch it!

One of the best movies I have seen in a very long time. Very much like my early days. Too bad they don't all turn out as great as Toby's did. A breath of fresh air to enjoy. This director is a god sent to the gay community. I say Bravo !!!! I have not yet seen any other of Marco Kreuzpaintner films but I am sure they will be fantastic. I wish I could get a Email address for Mr Kreuzpaintner But as of yet I cannot locate one. I hope other who have seen this movie enjoyed it as much as I. Please Email me if you would like to discuss any of his works or have any suggestions for other great movies. I must enter ten lines of comments to get this to take so at this point I guess I must ramble on to use up more space.