Rebecca Lenkiewicz’s Vivid Queer Coming-of-Age “Hot Milk” Debuts

"Hot Milk," the highly anticipated directorial debut of Rebecca Lenkiewicz, arrives in theaters this summer, bringing with it a fresh perspective on queer coming-of-age narratives within contemporary cinema . Lenkiewicz, best known for her screenwriting on projects such as "Ida" and "Disobedience," adapts Deborah Levy’s celebrated novel into a sun-drenched psychological drama that deftly explores themes of desire, liberation, and the often-fraught bonds between mothers and daughters .

Set against the vivid backdrop of the Spanish coast in the sweltering heat of summer, "Hot Milk" follows Sofia (Emma Mackey), who travels with her ailing and controlling mother, Rose (Fiona Shaw), to seek treatment from the enigmatic Dr. Gómez (Vincent Perez) . Amidst the tension simmering between mother and daughter, Sofia is drawn to Ingrid (Vicky Krieps), a magnetic and free-spirited woman whose presence opens Sofia’s world to new possibilities .

The film’s depiction of Sofia’s burgeoning attraction to Ingrid is handled with a tenderness and authenticity that has become a hallmark of Lenkiewicz’s writing. Through Sofia’s journey, “Hot Milk” crafts a nuanced portrait of queer longing and self-discovery, allowing LGBTQ+ audiences to see their experiences reflected in a context that is both universal and deeply personal .

Since its premiere in France in late May, "Hot Milk" has garnered significant attention from critics and festival audiences alike, with praise centering on Lenkiewicz’s assured direction and the layered performances of its central cast . Emma Mackey’s portrayal of Sofia has been highlighted for its sensitivity and emotional depth, while Vicky Krieps brings complexity and warmth to the role of Ingrid . The film has been described as “a vivid and evocative look at liberation and longing,” and has already earned two award nominations during its festival run .

The film’s release is particularly significant for LGBTQ+ audiences, who have often found themselves underrepresented or stereotypically portrayed in mainstream cinema. By centering Sofia’s queer awakening within a story about familial responsibility and independence, “Hot Milk” expands the landscape of LGBTQ+ film narratives, offering a story grounded in emotional truth and cultural specificity .

Rebecca Lenkiewicz’s decision to adapt Deborah Levy’s novel was fueled by her own appreciation for stories that challenge conventional boundaries. In interviews, Lenkiewicz has emphasized the importance of portraying queer lives with authenticity, drawing on her extensive background in theater and screenwriting to bring Sofia’s interior world to life . The film’s visual language—its sun-bleached landscapes and intimate close-ups—mirrors Sofia’s journey towards autonomy and desire.

The production, a collaboration between international partners including Film4, is notable for its inclusive casting and crew, reflecting the film’s commitment to representation both on and off the screen .

“Hot Milk” is set for a U.S. theatrical release on June 27, 2025, with distribution by IFC Films, followed by screenings at key LGBTQ+ film festivals throughout the summer . Anticipation is high within LGBTQ+ communities, with early social media response praising the film’s honest depiction of queer self-discovery and the chemistry between its leads .

By foregrounding an LGBTQ+ narrative within a broader meditation on family and freedom, “Hot Milk” stands out as a significant addition to the queer cinematic canon in 2025. As Lenkiewicz’s first feature, it marks the arrival of a vital new voice in filmmaking—one committed to telling stories that affirm and celebrate the diversity of queer experience .