Center of My World (2016) – A Tender Exploration of Identity, Love, and Growing Up

Starring: Louis Hofmann, Jannik Schümann
Directed by: Jakob M. Erwa
Runtime: 1h 55min
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Review:

Center of My World is a beautifully crafted coming-of-age story that quietly sneaks up on your heart. Set against the dreamy backdrop of a small German town, the film follows 17-year-old Phil (played by Louis Hofmann), who returns from summer camp to find his world subtly—but permanently—shifted. As he navigates a complicated family dynamic and the sudden arrival of mysterious, magnetic Nicholas (Jannik Schümann), Phil is forced to confront who he is, who he loves, and who he wants to become.

The story is intimate and poetic, with touches of magical realism that reflect Phil’s inner world. The romance is tender and authentic, painted with the aching confusion and euphoria of first love. What stands out most is the vulnerability in the performances—especially Hofmann’s, whose portrayal of longing, hope, and heartbreak feels raw and deeply human.

Visually, the film is gorgeous, using soft lighting and natural tones to create a sense of both nostalgia and immediacy. The soundtrack, subtle yet moving, perfectly complements the emotional rhythm of the story.

Verdict: Center of My World is more than a love story—it’s a quiet, powerful meditation on identity, acceptance, and the messy beauty of growing up. A must-watch for anyone who remembers the feeling of falling in love for the first time.