Reviews with content warning for Self harm - Heartstopper 1: Dos chicos juntos

I'm reading Heartstopper right now on Webtoon, but I wanted to include it here where I've been tracking my reading. I've only started reading it today, and I'm already starting chapter 7 of the webcomic. I believe volume 1 of the published version here is just chapters 1 and 2, so it's hard to review specifically these first couple chapters. Unless my feelings change much or I have a lot to say about what I haven't read yet, I'll probably only write a review for this volume and just mark the others as read, continuing this as more volumes of webcomic chapters are released.

On the whole, I'm loving this series. Its strength for me lies in its ability to be cute and optimistic without ignoring or underestimating harsh realities. It deals with difficult topics like homophobia, mental health, and strained family relationships, but it doesn't dwell on the angst and it remains an overall happy, comforting read. I'm also obsessed with the healthy communication abilities these teens are showing. The main group of friends the story surrounds are not perfect, but they're supportive and loving; they're doing their best and they just want each other to be happy. It's all a bit idealistic, but not in a way that feels fake or frivolous.

The first two chapters may seem a little slow or anticlimactic on their own. It's not exactly a slow-burn but has a slice-of-life feel similar to that of one of those TV dramas that go on for years and years, following different characters along many different story arcs and character developments. Unless you're a particularly slow reader (no shame), I'd recommend reading them pretty quickly in succession to get the most out of the experience. Or maybe that's just me being impatient and having way too much free time.

I've watched most but not all of the first season on Netflix. It stays quite true to the source material and captures the feel of the comics as well as a live-action adaptation can. The changes weren't major, but I generally prefer the comic on these points. One point I did prefer the show to was how much more expressive actors can be than simply drawn cartoons.

In particular, there's a scene where Nick is sitting in bed thinking about the situation he witnessed with Charlie and Ben and how Charlie was bullied last year that has stuck with me. The feelings of concern, empathy, confusion, and helplessness are palpable. This isn't to say the comics' characters came off as stiff or unemotional, but it's inevitable that real human faces can convey a lot more and I think Nick's actor did a great job throughout.

Content Warnings