What specifically about this movie makes it so compelling to so many people?

Myself being one of them.

I mean it’s a great story, great acting, etc, but it has some “it” factor I’m trying to identify.

I’ll list a few from my mind:

- it’s relatively simple and relatable premise of unrequited love, executed beautifully and gruesomely
- its depiction of that time of youth where the world and opportunities open up, as on a threshold (Nikki and Sarah’s future hopes) very nostalgic for me.
- every character seemed realistic although the premise was fantastic. I can honestly imagine Bear or Nikki existing in real life
- the nuanced social dynamics between the friend group providing endless fodder for discussion
- the surreal but soothing ambience of its soundtrack and lighting
- the fact that the movie does not shove many of its implications down the viewers throat, but trusts the audience to intuit them

Feel free to jump in.