Netflix new drama shows an optimistic world where there are consequences for bullying and bigotry.
Nick is the star of the school rugby team.
Charlie is the schools resident gay nerd.
Nick has never really thought that he was anything but straight until Charlie enters his life.
Charlies identity issues are more around low self-esteem, not wondering whether he likes the same sex.
Charlie is a perpetual victim of bullying.
As Nick sees the abuse Charlie receives, he starts fighting back in a big way.
He constantly tries to oppose Harrys hurtful insults with words of maturity and logic.
In this climactic scene, we get the most mature and startling dialogue in the show.
Nick takes on this burden for three parties: Charlie, himself, and the audience.
Queer youth are bullied at nearlytwice the rateof their straight counterparts.
The bullies will not prevail.
A place where they can live their very own happily ever after.
It never sugarcoats the dilemmas that amass on screen across the eight episodes.
Bullying is present in more than just Charlies world.
This opens up a much needed discussion on who deserves to know your sexual orientation.
There is sure to be more bullying that commences, this time more towards Nick.
Instead, the boys are able to overcome hatred with love.
And while this may seem corny, its exactly what queer teens, and even adults, need.
Heartstopper is available to stream on Netflix now.
