Coward: A WWI Gay Romance Blooms in the Trenches
TL;DR
IndieWire’s review of Lukas Dhont’s Coward praises its lyrical WWI setting and strong debut performances as two soldiers fall in love amid drag performances and frontline battles. While the film is beautiful, emotionally affecting, and stands as a quieter, less confrontational entry in Dhont’s oeuvre, it’s described as decorous and not as groundbreaking as his earlier work, suggesting Dhont may move beyond queer suffering in future projects. Grade B; premiered at Cannes 2026; US distribution still uncertain.
- ‘Coward’ Review: Lukas Dhont’s Study of the Gay Yearning Between Beautiful WWI Soldiers Is His Best Film Yet IndieWire
- Cannes entry 'Coward' uncovers softer side of World War One, says director Reuters
- Coward review – soldiers find escapism and romance in wartime theatrical troupe The Guardian
- Lukas Dhont's 'Coward' Gets 13-Minute Ovation In Cannes Debut Deadline
- Director Lukas Dhont on Queer World War I Romance ‘Courage’: ‘It’s a Part of History I Hadn’t Seen Portrayed’ Variety
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