The world of online dating serves as a focal point of Erblin Nushi’s debut I Love You More. Kosovo native Ben (Don Shala) finally makes plans to meet his online boyfriend Leo (Leonik Sahiti) in person. But, of course, life gets in the way.
A new opportunity awaits Ben and his family: the chance to leave Kosovo (where they are specifically in the new country is never revealed) and start anew in America. But this opportunity conflicts with Ben, a native of Germany, finally visiting Ben over the summer. Much of the film’s drama lies with this conflict. Can Ben convince his family to extend their stay in Kosovo so he can finally meet his online love? Will Ben even be in the country by the time Leo gets there?
Before Ben can try to convince his family to stay, he first must come out to them. The scenes are reminiscent of many “coming-out” dramas. Ben’s mother Nora (Irena Aliu) is supportive of Ben. His father Bashkim (Luan Jaha) does not approve. Ben is obviously resistant to move to America because of the chance to finally meet Ben. His family becomes resentful of Ben, as his desire to finally see Leo puts their journey in jeopardy. It is a somewhat ridiculous plot point, yet it is based in a feeling any viewer can relate to: first love.
The film achieves various gorgeous shots of the Kosovo countryside, but there are some stylistic choices that drag it down. Long, almost unbearable shots of Ben (sometimes doing nothing) linger for far too long. It is an attempt to be brooding that ultimately falls flat many times throughout the film. Still, the love story of Ben and Leo is a good focal point here, as is the chance to lead a better life abroad. The film would be a nice option for a public screening programming series on youth LGBTQ stories. It would also work for those interested in the Balkan countries.