Cool Kids Don't Cry

"Kiekjes" is actually a series that was adapted to the Belgian movie "Cool Kids Don't Cry" in 2016, based on the novel of the same name by Belgian author Ingrid Nuijten, also known by her penname 'Aafke de Bock' or in some sources 'Aafje'. The movie "Cool Kids Don't Cry" revolves around Akke Kooiman, a tough and feisty 12-year-old girl from the Flemish region of Belgium, who lives a typical life of mischief as a bully with her close friends at school. They tease and mock each other frequently but always stay together. Akkie's tough exterior, however, hides a vulnerable side that she reveals when it comes to something that she truly fears in life – falling in love. This fear stems from her mother's divorce and being bullied in her early grade school years. For Akkie, love signifies the loss not just of someone dear, but also of a part of one's self. Therefore, she steers clear of romance, focusing instead on being a part of an elite soccer group. However, Akkie's fear is forced to confront reality when her world falls apart. Upon a visit to a doctor after complaining about pain in her back, a terrifying diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia is made. A series of medical procedures and hospital stays follows, drastically altering Akkie's once-carefree life. Akkie's cancer diagnosis also puts an end to her soccer dreams, forcing her to give up the sport she loves. But even this is not all that changes in Akkie's life, as the girl discovers she has to accept that others will see her weakness and vulnerability, which she had always struggled to maintain a secret. This newfound awareness of her own emotional vulnerability brings Akkie one step closer to understanding the importance of allowing love into her life. The film portrays Akkie's struggle with cancer as more than just a physical fight; it's also a battle with her own emotions and with the harsh realities of life that she'd once tried to shield herself from. One thing, however, becomes clear: that love and fear can often exist hand in hand with one another and it's okay to let someone in despite your initial apprehension. As Akkie undergoes her treatments and grapples with the harsh reality of her condition, she begins to form a new relationship with her parents and friends, particularly the girl who is her roommate at the hospital, Nanda. She also starts attending school once more, albeit from her home where her mom looks after her. Nanda helps Akkie confront her fears head-on, gradually teaching her that it is okay to open up to others and express love, even if it ultimately leads to loss. Throughout her ordeal, Akkie is shown to be learning to face her insecurities while gradually accepting her emotions, which she once deemed as an 'invitation to the weak'. As she grows in courage and understanding of her emotions, she finds new hope in an unlikeliest of places: her own life and the people who truly love her.