“A Few Feet Away” is an inside look into the world of gay hookup apps

It’s no secret that technology comes with downsides. In an era dominated by social media influencers and virtual-reality headsets, it’s easier than ever to build a fantasy life at home rather than seek meaningful experiences in the real world. Hookup apps can distance us from the beauty of genuine sexual intimacy; with sexting and erotic chats with strangers just a few taps away, we can find ourselves glued to our screens chasing virtual connections instead of pursuing real ones.

A Few Feet Away follows a young man named Santiago (Max Suen) who spends much of his time texting on an app. Because he lacks real-life sexual encounters, he feels vulnerable and nervous when he finally goes on a date — and ends up fleeing. Determined to salvage his night, he wanders through Buenos Aires in search of genuine in-person connections, hoping to embrace his real desires instead of merely living them out virtually.

A Few Feet Away highlights the darker side of hookup apps. It examines how being glued to a screen can make us miss out on the joy that can be found through real world experiences. In an era when people are constantly looking down at their phones — even in vibrant cities like Buenos Aires — the story serves as a reminder of the beauty of human connection. It is something our devices can never replace.

To contrast all of this, the story immerses viewers in the fun and excitement of the gay nightlife scene. At just 20, Santiago hasn’t had many chances to explore this environment, making his entry into it both intriguing and meaningful. It feels like a coming-of-age journey — not from teen to adult, but from a curated online existence into the messier, richer reality of genuine human connection.

A Few Feet Away highlights how someone can feel almost alien to real interactions when too absorbed in technology. It is a timely reminder in our current era of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. Watching Santiago discover real spaces underscores just how vital they are for our community. And at a time when so many gay bars are shutting their doors, it’s crucial that younger generations don’t get lost in the disconnection that hookup apps can create.

The film often operates more as a vibe than a traditional plot-driven story — which can end up feeling a bit odd at times. A Few Feet Away is still an outstanding and painfully timely work of art. It captures the era we’re living in, where so many people are absorbed in their phones, in a way that feels unmistakably cinematic.

Santiago’s journey is something many young men today will likely see themselves reflected in. His evolution is both touching and quietly inspiring. The film examines the effects of Grindr and other hookup apps with a boldness and poignancy that feels rare. Ultimately, A Few Feet Away is a drama rooted in a real, modern issue — one that invites thought-provoking conversations long after the credits roll.

You can buy or rent A Few Feet Away on Amazon Video. 4/5 stars.