Sweetheart (2016 film)

Sweetheart is a 2016 British coming-of-age comedy-drama film directed by J.D. Dillard. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 22, 2016. It stars Kiersey Clemons as AJ, a young lesbian woman reluctantly spending summer vacation with her family at a holiday park. The film follows AJ as she navigates family relationships, her emerging sexuality, and a burgeoning romance with a local lifeguard, Riley, played by Ella Balinska. The film explores themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and first love. Sweetheart is noted for its humor, heartfelt performances, and portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships. The film received generally positive reviews for its writing, acting, and direction.