Ari states he didn’t believe in magic until he met Dante. That is exactly how this film feels: magical yet raw, portraying a story of ethnicity and sexuality that many are able to identify with.

| Original Score: 5/5 | Mar 16, 2025

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a labor of pure love, crafted with meticulous care and dedication. From its compelling storyline to the poignant messages it conveys, every aspect of the film resonates with genuine affection.

| Jul 18, 2024

As we figure out how to move forward in spite of the forces that elicit division, Alberto's film reminds us of the beauty of connection and the everlasting power of empathy — for oneself and for others.

| Jul 12, 2024

It never grew to the point of self acceptance… and that’s the whole point

| Apr 24, 2024

While the film lacks the character depth and the parents' backstories from the book, the two lead performances are great and the love story, which is front and center, is very satisfying.

| Jan 16, 2024

The engaging and realistic perfomances by Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales keep things interesting in this self-identity teen drama when the story starts to wander and get unfocused. The ending is predictable, but the journey to get there is worth watching.

| Dec 18, 2023

Despite its alluded sweetness, [Aitch Alberto] succeeds in imposing an almost palpable esthetic sensibility, and of course, succeeds in extracting the best from her young actors. [Full review in Spanish]

| Oct 5, 2023

Alberto doesn't hit viewers over the head with eighties nostalgia. She has crafted a sweet, disarmingly tender coming-of-age tale, one that believes opposites not only attract but also bring out the best in each other. It gives your heart a warm squeeze.

| Oct 2, 2023

A labor of love that was written for the screen and directed by Aitch Alberto, the movie is a faithful and well-executed tribute to author Benjamin Alire Sáenz' source material.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Sep 21, 2023

Its story a bit uneventful for screen translation, this is nonetheless a pleasant film...

| Sep 19, 2023

A good coming-of-age drama that strays from some of the more standard versions of this kind of story.

| Original Score: 6/10 | Sep 13, 2023

Aristotle and Dante is distinguished by its atmosphere of compassion in which expression thrives.

| Sep 11, 2023

Actors Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales have affecting, genuine chemistry with each other, and the connection between their characters makes this such a sweet, heartfelt YA film.

| Original Score: 8/10 | Sep 11, 2023

A sweet-natured, coming-of-age movie with breakthrough performances from newcomers Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales.

| Original Score: A- | Sep 11, 2023

One might be able to see the trajectory of this relationship from a mile away, but Alberto barely cares about our response to such obvious telegraphing.

| Sep 11, 2023

a very sweet teen love story with a big heart. I'd definitely recommend it

| Original Score: 6/10 | Sep 11, 2023

Especially for younger audiences, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe will be a charming queer expression that is worthy in its perspective, emotions, and presence.

| Sep 11, 2023

The stories of growing up and finding yourself remain the same, but it’s the moving performances and specific details embroidered on this one that make it so special.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Sep 9, 2023

It’s pretty easy to fall in love with Ari and Dante, but the movie is only in love with the idea of them, neglecting quality time between the characters that would really make us feel like they've traveled through galaxies and beyond.

| Original Score: C | Sep 9, 2023

Bolstered by Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales鈥檚 genuine chemistry, Alberto鈥檚 heartwarming direction makes this a film that shouldn鈥檛 be kept secret.

| Sep 8, 2023