This is one of the most satisfying "gay" films I've seen since "Beautiful Thing," and one of the best mystery-married pairings since John and Sherlock, or should I say Nick and Nora. It's the story of Donald Strachey, tough guy P.I. with a shady past and a sweet tooth for guy pal Sebastian Spence. It's a good story, not a great one, with a sultry jazz score and topical references to such controversial subjects as celebrity outing and pedophiliac priests. What makes it work is the unconventional casting of Chad Allen (who is gay himself, but doesn't look it--although one character dubs him "Nancy-boy Drew") as Strachey, who just happens to be very happily married to Timothy (played by Sebastian Spence, who is apparently straight, and maybe that's why his character overdoes the nelly a bit). Allen, as Strachey, is developing very nicely as an actor, and he's more interesting looking now than he ever was as a child. In "Third Man Out," he gets solid support from QAF's Jack Wetherall and Sean Young. Apparently, this is the first in a series, based on the novels by Richard Stevenson and set, contrarily, in Albany, rather than in New York City or San Francisco. Hopefully, it will prove popular enough with its intended audience that other books in the series will also be filmed. Apart from the rather pedestrian direction (by Ron Oliver) and a couple of too obvious twists in the plot, "Third Man" is entertaining throughout.
22 Reviews
And Now For Something Completely Different
roedyg16 November 2007
I watched this film simply because First Wave's impossibly handsome Sebastian Spence was in it. I wanted to see what other roles he might play. His character here is completely different from Cade Foster, and completely charming. The plot has as many twists as an Agatha mystery novel, constantly keeping you guessing, and pulling the rug out from under you when you think you have finally figured it all out. However, it is also a thriller. The protagonist, Chad Allen as private eye Donald Strachey is neither tough nor particularly intelligent, though his body ripples. I was on the edge of my seat worrying about what would happen to him next.
It is a movie about gay people, exploring all kinds of issues from blackmail, to outing, to spying, to HIV, to gays in the military, to sexual abuse. The main pair of characters have a loving, domestic monogamous relationship. It is nice to see a gay couple portrayed realistically. Sex is not the #1 priority for most gays. They are both clean cut, pleasant and sympathetic. At times Spence reminded me of Cary Grant in Arsenic and Old Lace. The lead gay couple don't take drugs, go to orgies or commit suicide as seems mandatory in so many other movies about gays.
There is a touch of frontal male nudity, and a short tasteful scene of a male-male couple in bed caressing gently. It is not a sleasy film despite some of the subject matter. There are also photos of the bad guys engaged in S&M.
This is a film unlike any other. I never could guess where it was going next. It is delightfully entertaining, every last minute of it.
It is a movie about gay people, exploring all kinds of issues from blackmail, to outing, to spying, to HIV, to gays in the military, to sexual abuse. The main pair of characters have a loving, domestic monogamous relationship. It is nice to see a gay couple portrayed realistically. Sex is not the #1 priority for most gays. They are both clean cut, pleasant and sympathetic. At times Spence reminded me of Cary Grant in Arsenic and Old Lace. The lead gay couple don't take drugs, go to orgies or commit suicide as seems mandatory in so many other movies about gays.
There is a touch of frontal male nudity, and a short tasteful scene of a male-male couple in bed caressing gently. It is not a sleasy film despite some of the subject matter. There are also photos of the bad guys engaged in S&M.
This is a film unlike any other. I never could guess where it was going next. It is delightfully entertaining, every last minute of it.
Hail Queer-Noir
traceytoney26 September 2006
The gay private eye thriller Third Man Out is, hopefully, the first of a new film genre that I'll dub "Queer-Noir". Third Man's plot may be a bit serpentine and it's dialogue stretched at the corners to cover maximum political ground, but Chad Allen's nuanced and sexily hard-boiled performance easily compensates for these shortcomings. As Private Eye Donald Strachey, Allen comes off as Spenser crossed with Columbo with a dash of Brian Kinney tossed into this enticing mix.
Though Ron Oliver's direction isn't flashy, it's very appropriate for a noir flick set in Albany. Like Richard Stevenson's books--on the pages of which Donald Strachey was conceived--this film is about character and concept and the tension between these two dramatic elements. Stevenson was one of the first writers to infuse the pragmatic, ultra-masculine private eye genre with an unabashedly gay aesthetic. A perfect synthesis of these two influences, Third Man Out gives us a detective who shares waltzes and moonlight martinis with his hubby, drives a banged up Toyota Tercel and can lay bad guys flat with an unsparing right hook.
Third Man's production values are outstanding for a cable film. Keeping Richard Stevenson's Albany setting was a smart move by Here! network, as so many well intentioned films go astray when they aim for glitzy settings and end up with cheap Canadian photocopies.
The only flaws worth citing were: a couple of actor Sebastian Spence's scenes (during which he portrays Donald Strachey's husband as a cross between C3PO and Uncle Arthur from Bewitched) and a heavy-handed score (with good feature songs that are sandbagged by some very obtrusive "tension and suspense" instrumentals).
What most delighted me about Third Man was the thrill of watching a genuine and polished noir flick which was, in every respect, thoroughly but naturally queer. While Third Man isn't Brokeback Mountain, it is a milestone in its own right. It's a well executed, enjoyable film about a hard-boiled detective who wears bad ties and breaks out in a blushing grin when his boyfriend kisses him on the cheek.
Though Ron Oliver's direction isn't flashy, it's very appropriate for a noir flick set in Albany. Like Richard Stevenson's books--on the pages of which Donald Strachey was conceived--this film is about character and concept and the tension between these two dramatic elements. Stevenson was one of the first writers to infuse the pragmatic, ultra-masculine private eye genre with an unabashedly gay aesthetic. A perfect synthesis of these two influences, Third Man Out gives us a detective who shares waltzes and moonlight martinis with his hubby, drives a banged up Toyota Tercel and can lay bad guys flat with an unsparing right hook.
Third Man's production values are outstanding for a cable film. Keeping Richard Stevenson's Albany setting was a smart move by Here! network, as so many well intentioned films go astray when they aim for glitzy settings and end up with cheap Canadian photocopies.
The only flaws worth citing were: a couple of actor Sebastian Spence's scenes (during which he portrays Donald Strachey's husband as a cross between C3PO and Uncle Arthur from Bewitched) and a heavy-handed score (with good feature songs that are sandbagged by some very obtrusive "tension and suspense" instrumentals).
What most delighted me about Third Man was the thrill of watching a genuine and polished noir flick which was, in every respect, thoroughly but naturally queer. While Third Man isn't Brokeback Mountain, it is a milestone in its own right. It's a well executed, enjoyable film about a hard-boiled detective who wears bad ties and breaks out in a blushing grin when his boyfriend kisses him on the cheek.
Which is more odious: A man who outs closeted gay hypocrites or drug company CEOs? Strachey helps us decide
Terrell-44 February 2008
Which would be worse if you're a gay detective based in Albany, New York...slugged in the kisser by an irate blonde who doesn't care for the photos you took of her husband or being called "Nancy-boy Drew" by the corrupt and catty manager of a hotel who secretly films the doings of some of the guests? Donald Strachey (Chad Allen) doesn't much care for either, but this is nothing compared to what he is about to get involved in. Fortunately, Strachey is a happily married man, or as close to it as a gay man can be. His partner, Timmy Callaghan (Sebastian Spence), is a smart, affectionate political assistant to an elected New York state assemblywoman. Strachey's latest case brings him a client that both he and Timmy are repulsed by.
John Rutka (Jack Wetherall), an aging, self-righteous gay demagogue, publishes a cable expose program called The Rutka Report. In it he outs closet gays, especially well-known married public homophobes who promote family values and sponsor anti-gay legislation while secretly making nighttime visits to highway rest stops and wearing their leathers at, ah, small, intimate parties. After someone breaks into his home and shoots him in the leg, Rutka goes to Strachey for protection. Strachey turns him down. Outing people, Strachey and Timmy agree, is one of the lowest forms of human activity. But the need for Strachey to earn an income changes their minds. Even though Strachey has to hold his nose, he takes on the job. It's not long before a charred corpse turns up and is identified through dental records and that gunshot wound by the cops as Rutka. Strachey took the man's money; now he's determined to find the man's murderer. There are three prime candidates, one of whom Rutka was going to pick as the cover-boy for his next broadcast. From Rutka's files, Strachey identifies Ronnie Linklater, the host and star of a hugely popular children's television show who enjoys using his hand-puppets in unusual ways; Bruno Slinger, a powerful, anti-gay Congressman who thinks B&D without a little pain for his partner is for sissies; and a person Rutka identified only as "the ultimate hypocrite." From there, Strachey doggedly goes through piles of Rutka's documents, financial records and computer files. Along the way he visits sleazy motels, a Catholic church, a hospital and a funeral; he encounters Rutka's body- building partner, Rutka's foul-mouthed sister, an exercising granny who puts moves on him, and various tough guys who push him around and pistol whip him. He leaves one of them limping, after Timmy gets beaten up, by using a power nailer to plow a nail into the guy's foot. Strachey also visits a porn call-in site where the owner, Dik Steele, for a fee will talk to heavy breathing call-in chumps. Even Strachey looks put off a bit at the operators posing as Steele...balding, chubby males and grannies with deep voices, all pretending to be Dik Steele in the throes of ultimate passion. Kind of like internet sites. The conclusion carries a powerful and unexpected twist which some may like and some may not.
Third Man Out is the first of what may be a series of Canadian cable movies featuring Chad Allen as Donald Strachey. The second, Shock to the System, was broadcast in 2006. It seemed to me that with Third Man Out, director and writer Ron Oliver was still in the process of finding the right balance between message and mystery. Oliver and Allen deal with a lot of issues here, some head on, some in passing, everything from hypocrisy, AIDs and the costs of AIDs medicine, the ethics of outing, gay relationships and on and on. For me, all these messages began getting in the way of the mystery, which I thought was well-constructed with clever false leads, good characters and a disturbing conclusion. With Shock to the System, I think Oliver found the formula that works...make sure you put the mystery first and keep the messages low-key. For readers, the Donald Strachey mysteries by Richard Stevenson, all eight of them, are worth buying. The plots are strong and Strachey makes for a believable, sometimes cocky private eye. They are solid mysteries that happen to feature a gay private detective; they're not simply gay mysteries.
John Rutka (Jack Wetherall), an aging, self-righteous gay demagogue, publishes a cable expose program called The Rutka Report. In it he outs closet gays, especially well-known married public homophobes who promote family values and sponsor anti-gay legislation while secretly making nighttime visits to highway rest stops and wearing their leathers at, ah, small, intimate parties. After someone breaks into his home and shoots him in the leg, Rutka goes to Strachey for protection. Strachey turns him down. Outing people, Strachey and Timmy agree, is one of the lowest forms of human activity. But the need for Strachey to earn an income changes their minds. Even though Strachey has to hold his nose, he takes on the job. It's not long before a charred corpse turns up and is identified through dental records and that gunshot wound by the cops as Rutka. Strachey took the man's money; now he's determined to find the man's murderer. There are three prime candidates, one of whom Rutka was going to pick as the cover-boy for his next broadcast. From Rutka's files, Strachey identifies Ronnie Linklater, the host and star of a hugely popular children's television show who enjoys using his hand-puppets in unusual ways; Bruno Slinger, a powerful, anti-gay Congressman who thinks B&D without a little pain for his partner is for sissies; and a person Rutka identified only as "the ultimate hypocrite." From there, Strachey doggedly goes through piles of Rutka's documents, financial records and computer files. Along the way he visits sleazy motels, a Catholic church, a hospital and a funeral; he encounters Rutka's body- building partner, Rutka's foul-mouthed sister, an exercising granny who puts moves on him, and various tough guys who push him around and pistol whip him. He leaves one of them limping, after Timmy gets beaten up, by using a power nailer to plow a nail into the guy's foot. Strachey also visits a porn call-in site where the owner, Dik Steele, for a fee will talk to heavy breathing call-in chumps. Even Strachey looks put off a bit at the operators posing as Steele...balding, chubby males and grannies with deep voices, all pretending to be Dik Steele in the throes of ultimate passion. Kind of like internet sites. The conclusion carries a powerful and unexpected twist which some may like and some may not.
Third Man Out is the first of what may be a series of Canadian cable movies featuring Chad Allen as Donald Strachey. The second, Shock to the System, was broadcast in 2006. It seemed to me that with Third Man Out, director and writer Ron Oliver was still in the process of finding the right balance between message and mystery. Oliver and Allen deal with a lot of issues here, some head on, some in passing, everything from hypocrisy, AIDs and the costs of AIDs medicine, the ethics of outing, gay relationships and on and on. For me, all these messages began getting in the way of the mystery, which I thought was well-constructed with clever false leads, good characters and a disturbing conclusion. With Shock to the System, I think Oliver found the formula that works...make sure you put the mystery first and keep the messages low-key. For readers, the Donald Strachey mysteries by Richard Stevenson, all eight of them, are worth buying. The plots are strong and Strachey makes for a believable, sometimes cocky private eye. They are solid mysteries that happen to feature a gay private detective; they're not simply gay mysteries.
Worth seeing, worth owning
jackniel30 August 2007
Well done movie, with some great acting. This movie, will keep viewers on the edge of their seat for part of the movie, first time through. You'll want to view it a second time, to pick up a few more clues, and just plain out enjoy the acting. I felt that the content of the 'publisher' in the story could have been just about anything controversial. It was about outing men that appear to only be straight in society. If it was not so "push the gay envelope, to appear normal" I would have enjoyed it more, and would have rated it 10 stars/excellent. The lead actor is gay, and he and his lover do a great job as showing gay men, as everyday normal people. Everyone will love that, straights/gays alike. I now look forward to the next film ... Shock to the System.
Masterful gay detective movie with a good ending
jlbrown73 September 2006
I'm used to seeing under-achieving gay movies, with laughable acting, unbelievable writing and downright bad directing. But not "Third Man Out"! The plot is excellent. The actors are believable - and really good. The directing is second to none.
The only disappointment is that too many gay stereotypes were used - not stereotypes imposed on gays but stereotypes created by gays. That is, evil cigar-smoking Republicans hiding their hypocritical deeds, and evil church officials ruining the lives of others. But, the movie was so good, I can forgive the writer for injecting his own bias. Good job overall!
I also get tired of seeing gay lovers always fighting. For once it was refreshing to see two characters really love each other - portraying what we all seek. In addition to that, the two characters really had different lives and different tastes, yet they made the relationship work. It was a good match.
Thank you and congratulations to Chad Alan, Sebastian Spence, Ron Oliver, and Mark Saltzman.
The only disappointment is that too many gay stereotypes were used - not stereotypes imposed on gays but stereotypes created by gays. That is, evil cigar-smoking Republicans hiding their hypocritical deeds, and evil church officials ruining the lives of others. But, the movie was so good, I can forgive the writer for injecting his own bias. Good job overall!
I also get tired of seeing gay lovers always fighting. For once it was refreshing to see two characters really love each other - portraying what we all seek. In addition to that, the two characters really had different lives and different tastes, yet they made the relationship work. It was a good match.
Thank you and congratulations to Chad Alan, Sebastian Spence, Ron Oliver, and Mark Saltzman.
Not a bad effort; would be nice to see more of these
misterspike8 August 2006
The story seemed somewhat hackneyed and predictable, filled with the staples of the genre, but that struck me as more intentional than accidental. The dialogue was awkward at times, but I enjoyed the performances. The production values are good, and the music helps carry the story during its weaker moments. Overall it seemed like a reasonably good pilot for a series. I'd enjoy seeing where they could take this, once the actors and writers had a chance to settle into their roles.
The biggest weakness I found was determining how seriously to take it. It seemed to ricochet between overly-earnest and tongue-in-cheek. But overall I enjoyed it and would look forward to seeing more.
(Keep your eyes open for interesting gas prices.)
The biggest weakness I found was determining how seriously to take it. It seemed to ricochet between overly-earnest and tongue-in-cheek. But overall I enjoyed it and would look forward to seeing more.
(Keep your eyes open for interesting gas prices.)
Martinis By Moonlight
Lechuguilla11 June 2007
Chad Allen is perfectly cast as Donald Strachey, a slightly haggard and totally "out" gay PI who lives with his Brooks Brothers hubby, Timmy (played by Sebastian Spence). Set in Albany, New York, of all places, Strachey investigates the attempted murder of gay activist John Rutka (Jack Wetherall), who has made enemies by "outing" still-in-the-closet VIPs.
The film's final ten minutes transform what had been a mildly interesting story into a blockbuster whodunit that even Agatha Christie would be proud of. It's been quite some time since I have watched a film wherein the plot twists were so startling and stunning. The film's writers give you the clues you need to solve the puzzle. But those clues are so subtle that the probability that you will latch onto them is slightly greater than zero. It's worth every bit of the viewers' time to endure a tangled, serpentine plot, and some minor plot holes, one of which could have been corrected by the use of a different camera angle.
The somewhat muddled plot conceals a substantial theme. But again, that theme does not appear until the final ten minutes. This is the kind of film you have to stay with, to appreciate its significance.
Apart from the great story, "Third Man Out" exudes a classy, cosmo-chic style, reminiscent of 1940's crime noir, by way of the sultry jazz sounds of "In Heat, In Love" and "Martinis By Moonlight". At appropriate intervals, shadowy induced suspense punctuates the trendy atmosphere, consistent with what viewers would expect, for a whodunit.
The film's cinematography, especially the lighting, is excellent. Production design and costumes (love those black suede jackets) render high quality visuals. Overall, acting is adequate. And some of the dialogue sparkles: "You know, I'm starting to wonder if maybe life isn't always so black and white, in Kansas maybe, but not here in Emerald City".
Despite a slightly tangled plot, "Third Man Out" is a terrific film that can be enjoyed by viewers, gay or straight, who revel in stylistic murder mysteries.
The film's final ten minutes transform what had been a mildly interesting story into a blockbuster whodunit that even Agatha Christie would be proud of. It's been quite some time since I have watched a film wherein the plot twists were so startling and stunning. The film's writers give you the clues you need to solve the puzzle. But those clues are so subtle that the probability that you will latch onto them is slightly greater than zero. It's worth every bit of the viewers' time to endure a tangled, serpentine plot, and some minor plot holes, one of which could have been corrected by the use of a different camera angle.
The somewhat muddled plot conceals a substantial theme. But again, that theme does not appear until the final ten minutes. This is the kind of film you have to stay with, to appreciate its significance.
Apart from the great story, "Third Man Out" exudes a classy, cosmo-chic style, reminiscent of 1940's crime noir, by way of the sultry jazz sounds of "In Heat, In Love" and "Martinis By Moonlight". At appropriate intervals, shadowy induced suspense punctuates the trendy atmosphere, consistent with what viewers would expect, for a whodunit.
The film's cinematography, especially the lighting, is excellent. Production design and costumes (love those black suede jackets) render high quality visuals. Overall, acting is adequate. And some of the dialogue sparkles: "You know, I'm starting to wonder if maybe life isn't always so black and white, in Kansas maybe, but not here in Emerald City".
Despite a slightly tangled plot, "Third Man Out" is a terrific film that can be enjoyed by viewers, gay or straight, who revel in stylistic murder mysteries.
Modern Day Nick and Nora Charles
ljmcfarland18 February 2007
I don't often post on this site, perhaps I will more often, but felt compelled to add my two cents since my reaction to the film was different from the reviews I've been reading. I enjoyed this gay Who-done-it and hope that there'll be more from the same writer. Yes, the characters at time seem overly sweet, but that's against the sarcasm and one-upmanship we come to accept as normal in gay society. Here we have a devoted couple, struggling along the best they can. One is in a political background, supporting his other half who does what he can in a tedious private detective position. Presented with a case he's torn between doing the right thing, either refusing to work for a gay man who he finds fanatical and who tends to ruin lives - or put himself and his lover in danger by pursuing "the bad guys"
Dashiell Hammett has been dead for years, there'll be no more Nick Charles stories, but Richard Stevenson's Donald Strachey is a refreshing twist especially considering Strachey and his partner aren't some tedious twinky 20-somethings, and the film was done as a homage to Film Noir and has some nice romantic touches. I have purchased this DVD,recommend it and look forward to sequels.
Dashiell Hammett has been dead for years, there'll be no more Nick Charles stories, but Richard Stevenson's Donald Strachey is a refreshing twist especially considering Strachey and his partner aren't some tedious twinky 20-somethings, and the film was done as a homage to Film Noir and has some nice romantic touches. I have purchased this DVD,recommend it and look forward to sequels.
Great Idea, Horribly Executed
robert-connor11 February 2010
When a controversial gay rights activist comes under physical threat from person or persons unknown, he turns to a gay private investigator, expecting unconditional support and assistance. Things don't go well until tragedy strikes...
Fantastic idea that frames a number of interesting questions e.g. does being gay mean automatically accepting and agreeing with all gay politics and attitudes, within the fascinating conceit of presenting a traditional gumshoe who is happily 'out' as a gay man. Sadly, the execution of this relatively low-budget production is frankly terrible, ham-strung by clunking dialogue and some of the worst supporting actor performances I've seen in a while. Chad Allen has charm and chops to spare, and Spence is endearing but for the most part they are horribly hindered by an unimaginative and hackneyed script and a host of wooden performances.
Big shame...
Here's hoping if Joseph Hansen's Brandstetter series ever reaches the screen (small or large), it'll be better than this.
Fantastic idea that frames a number of interesting questions e.g. does being gay mean automatically accepting and agreeing with all gay politics and attitudes, within the fascinating conceit of presenting a traditional gumshoe who is happily 'out' as a gay man. Sadly, the execution of this relatively low-budget production is frankly terrible, ham-strung by clunking dialogue and some of the worst supporting actor performances I've seen in a while. Chad Allen has charm and chops to spare, and Spence is endearing but for the most part they are horribly hindered by an unimaginative and hackneyed script and a host of wooden performances.
Big shame...
Here's hoping if Joseph Hansen's Brandstetter series ever reaches the screen (small or large), it'll be better than this.
Great Gay-Themed Film Noir
augiedog14 August 2006
This very watchable and super enjoyable gay themed detective film shows how much one can do on a more limited budget when a cast and crew have talent and vision. The story follows the investigation of an attempted murder and subsequent events by gay private detective Donald Strachey, played with perfection by a very sexy, very hot Chad Allen. Part of the reason for Chad Allen's superb performance is his natural ease and great comfort with himself and his character. He doesn't seem to be acting so much as becoming his character, which is a great credit to his ability. The film follows his character through a series of events filled with lots of twists and surprises that will satisfy any mystery/private detective connossuer. The seamless development and constant freshness of the storyline show how well written, well directed, and well performed this terrific film is. The mystery is revealed with great care and would make any mystery writer proud and the relationship storyline with Chad Allen and Sebastian Spence is treated with great respect, ease and much humor. It's great to see Jack Wetherall, from Queer As Folk, in a pivotal role in this film and he does a fantastic job here as the character much of the story revolves around. Third Man Out is the first in a series of films about the investigations of Donald Strachey - and that's great news. I look forward to many more. It's a credit to Chad Allen, Ron Oliver, and a very talented cast and crew who've already made this series a big success!
A gay detective story .
cdshow14 April 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I didn't know that the time has come for a gay take on a detective story that has been a traditional straight domain. And it turned out good. Its about a self-styled investigative reporter (Wetherall from QAF) who outs high profile, closeted but practicing gays who use their positions to stifle gay rights. Naturally Wetherall attracted powerful enemies. When his life is on the line, Allen reluctantly took on his case despite the fact that he abhors Wetherall. My likes: the normalcy of the gay setting; the way the plot twists are paced so that you never expect the final turn (this being a book adaptation); Allen performing like a seasoned PI who has been there and done that but with a hint of a checkered past that hopefully will surface in the next installment (there are plans for a series). And the sexy song in the middle of the movie when Allen took his partner for a slow dance. Cant wait for the next one.
A well written mystery
Gordon-1125 April 2009
This film is about a gay detective who is hired to investigate the death of a gay activist.
I can hardly believe that "Third Man Out" is a made for TV film. It is a well written mystery with much suspense and thrill throughout. Donald Strachey investigates his case in a Sherlock Holmes style, laid out in an engaging manner which drives the viewers to long for more. The ending twists and progresses quickly, but it does not lose the viewers. It is rare to see a mystery film with a great plot. It is also refreshing to see Donald Strachey and Timmy Callahan as wholesome characters. The only complaint I have is that they seem to have only one lighting source for interior scenes, so some scenes are poorly lit with the main character in shadow. Otherwise, I enjoyed watching "Third Man Out".
I can hardly believe that "Third Man Out" is a made for TV film. It is a well written mystery with much suspense and thrill throughout. Donald Strachey investigates his case in a Sherlock Holmes style, laid out in an engaging manner which drives the viewers to long for more. The ending twists and progresses quickly, but it does not lose the viewers. It is rare to see a mystery film with a great plot. It is also refreshing to see Donald Strachey and Timmy Callahan as wholesome characters. The only complaint I have is that they seem to have only one lighting source for interior scenes, so some scenes are poorly lit with the main character in shadow. Otherwise, I enjoyed watching "Third Man Out".
Awful movie. maybe gay themed but so stereo typical
House-of_cards5 November 2006
This was so disappointing..It had such a standard storyline..Yes .You may say hang on its about a gay private eye and gay characters ,thats true but the screenplay,storyline, characters are the same as your standard private detective and murder, etc. The dialogue is the same as your standard TV private Detective episode . The acting is so ordinary, not one good acting performance in it , though to be fair in such a lousy story and screenplay its difficult to shine for any actor. If this is the best Ron Oliver can offer I suggest he sticks to the day job. One more note is the soundtrack.. truly bad.. small sounding like they were short of of musicians and the same as the Movie .Miss this one everyone. I mean it.
Outing Folks Can Be Dangerous
bkoganbing26 October 2011
Chad Allen made his debut as Donald Strachey, openly gay detective based in Albany, New York in Third Man Out. Allen is hired by Jack Weatherell noted gay blogger whose specialty is outing closeted gays, especially those in conservative clothing. But now one of those who Weatherell is gathering research on is maybe looking to kill him. The usual death threats have been made and there have been incidents.
The subject of outing is still a controversial one, but becoming less and less because as the forces of fundamentalist religion and the homophobia they engender denies our access to equality in the USA and other places in the world. There is more and more agreement that the Larry Craigs of the world need to be outed. But in 2005 Allen as Strachey is still coming to grips with his feelings on the subject as is his partner Sebastian Spence.
Later on murder does occur and Allen zeroes in on three really good suspects, a Republican Congressman, a closeted gay children's show host and none other than Roman Catholic Bishop of the Albany diocese. They all are real good candidates.
I do like Allen in this role very much and I wish I had seen this film first as it sets up characters and situations in the two succeeding Strachey films I saw before Third Man Out. Allen is completely in the pulp fiction tradition of Sam Spade and Philip Marlowe. A young man who loses his job in this film because of what Allen does in his former boss's office in his search for the truth is later hired and becomes his secretary/receptionist. The seedy office Strachey operates from is straight out of Mickey Spillane.
However as is the times Strachey is completely devoted to his partner Spence and probably were among the first to be married this year when New York got same gender marriage. The love is strong because he takes a pass on Matthew Rush, gay male porn star who plays one in this film and in which we get to see exactly what Strachey passes on. Married or unmarried fidelity as the case may be is NOT in the Spillane, Chandler or Hammett tradition.
Third Man Out is a well made film, shot in Toronto and Vancouver, which don't look a bit like Albany and has a real novel twist at the end.
The subject of outing is still a controversial one, but becoming less and less because as the forces of fundamentalist religion and the homophobia they engender denies our access to equality in the USA and other places in the world. There is more and more agreement that the Larry Craigs of the world need to be outed. But in 2005 Allen as Strachey is still coming to grips with his feelings on the subject as is his partner Sebastian Spence.
Later on murder does occur and Allen zeroes in on three really good suspects, a Republican Congressman, a closeted gay children's show host and none other than Roman Catholic Bishop of the Albany diocese. They all are real good candidates.
I do like Allen in this role very much and I wish I had seen this film first as it sets up characters and situations in the two succeeding Strachey films I saw before Third Man Out. Allen is completely in the pulp fiction tradition of Sam Spade and Philip Marlowe. A young man who loses his job in this film because of what Allen does in his former boss's office in his search for the truth is later hired and becomes his secretary/receptionist. The seedy office Strachey operates from is straight out of Mickey Spillane.
However as is the times Strachey is completely devoted to his partner Spence and probably were among the first to be married this year when New York got same gender marriage. The love is strong because he takes a pass on Matthew Rush, gay male porn star who plays one in this film and in which we get to see exactly what Strachey passes on. Married or unmarried fidelity as the case may be is NOT in the Spillane, Chandler or Hammett tradition.
Third Man Out is a well made film, shot in Toronto and Vancouver, which don't look a bit like Albany and has a real novel twist at the end.
Not a particularly good movie, but ....
cekadah29 August 2020
.... it is a story that needed to be made.
Director: Ron Oliver and Writers: Mark Saltzman & Richard Stevenson give us a story in which the principle character - Donald Strachey is a private detective in a devoted relationship with another man - and must solve a murder mystery of a man who exposes the hypocrisy of community leaders.
The concept and plot of this movie is great! But the performance by the actors is lacking! What a pity - as the message offered is thought provoking and in 2020 a most necessary topic needed to be addressed in the US today.
It's worth watching just for the twist at movies end.
Director: Ron Oliver and Writers: Mark Saltzman & Richard Stevenson give us a story in which the principle character - Donald Strachey is a private detective in a devoted relationship with another man - and must solve a murder mystery of a man who exposes the hypocrisy of community leaders.
The concept and plot of this movie is great! But the performance by the actors is lacking! What a pity - as the message offered is thought provoking and in 2020 a most necessary topic needed to be addressed in the US today.
It's worth watching just for the twist at movies end.
Low On Budget, High On Charm...
cchase12 September 2007
Warning: Spoilers
I have seen the Richard Stevenson novels in bookstores for years, but was never really compelled to pick one up. I'm glad that HERE! saw fit to begin adapting them for a cable movie series, since there's never been anything like it. Having said that, I hope that the production values pick up in future episodes, because THIRD MAN OUT really has a hard time keeping its low-budget seams hidden. What definitely redeems it is the chemistry between the two leads, Chad Allen (DR. QUINN, MEDICINE WOMAN) and Sebastian Spence (the Sci-Fi Channel series FIRST WAVE).
Allen stars as Stevenson hero Donald Strachey, an openly gay P.I. with the hard-boiled, streetwise demeanor you'd expect from any gumshoe worth his weight in pictures of cheating spouses, and whose main soft spot is his love for husband Timmy (Spence), who works as the chief aide for a Senator. THIRD MAN finds Strachey involved with the case of a muck-raking gay journalist named John Rutka (Jack Wetherall - "Uncle Vic" from the series QUEER AS FOLK), whose specialty is outing prominent figures in politics and entertainment whose actions and beliefs are detrimental to the gay community. John is about to select his next "coverboy" for his notorious website "The Rutka Report," when several attempts are made on his life, each one deadlier than the next.
Rutka manages to hire a reluctant Strachey to take his case, but when evidence comes to light that the hated activist might be trying to play him for a patsy, Donald drops the case faster than a pan of hot-cross buns. But once Rutka's fears of being murdered are finally justified, he takes up the trail once again to find the killer.
All the regular conventions of investigative crime dramas are here, with the gay angle providing some fresh and unusual wrinkles. The only problem is that the reliance on this aspect gets a little heavy-handed at times, even preachy (Wetherall has his work cut out for him, making Rutka's speeches about outing hypocritical power players sound justified without careening into crazed zealotry, but he manages well.)
What keeps the movie entertaining is the banter and the obviously loving relationship between Don and Timmy, (whose portrayal as kind of a gay "Nick and Nora Charles" is 100% intentional.) None of the "mystery" would even be very engaging if they didn't work, and the two actors are great together, making me want to see more from them. (Fortunately, there's another movie and many more books to film as well.)
The supporting cast besides Wetherall aren't bad, and Sean Young appears in a cameo where she's not exactly wasted, but one wished her role had been much larger. The target audience for this movie becomes more than apparent by the casting of Falcon porn-god Matthew Rush as a C.I. of Strachey's. Nice to know that along with his incredible looks, Rush CAN actually say lines convincingly and not bump into the furniture, (in spite of a blanket prejudicial perception applied to many of the "actors" from that particular part of the industry.)
As I mentioned before, the settings in which the film takes place are more than overtly "Vancouveresque", although the story is supposed to be taking place somewhere in the U.S. - a snag that hamstrings many North American productions, but definitely more of those films of the lower-budget variety.
Director Ron Oliver still plays it smart by concentrating on the more 'noir-ish' aspects of the drama, and the appealing chemistry of the cutest gay couple in crime-solving. Here's hoping that everyone ups the ante in future episodes, because all things considered, THIRD MAN OUT is still an engaging, entertaining start.
Allen stars as Stevenson hero Donald Strachey, an openly gay P.I. with the hard-boiled, streetwise demeanor you'd expect from any gumshoe worth his weight in pictures of cheating spouses, and whose main soft spot is his love for husband Timmy (Spence), who works as the chief aide for a Senator. THIRD MAN finds Strachey involved with the case of a muck-raking gay journalist named John Rutka (Jack Wetherall - "Uncle Vic" from the series QUEER AS FOLK), whose specialty is outing prominent figures in politics and entertainment whose actions and beliefs are detrimental to the gay community. John is about to select his next "coverboy" for his notorious website "The Rutka Report," when several attempts are made on his life, each one deadlier than the next.
Rutka manages to hire a reluctant Strachey to take his case, but when evidence comes to light that the hated activist might be trying to play him for a patsy, Donald drops the case faster than a pan of hot-cross buns. But once Rutka's fears of being murdered are finally justified, he takes up the trail once again to find the killer.
All the regular conventions of investigative crime dramas are here, with the gay angle providing some fresh and unusual wrinkles. The only problem is that the reliance on this aspect gets a little heavy-handed at times, even preachy (Wetherall has his work cut out for him, making Rutka's speeches about outing hypocritical power players sound justified without careening into crazed zealotry, but he manages well.)
What keeps the movie entertaining is the banter and the obviously loving relationship between Don and Timmy, (whose portrayal as kind of a gay "Nick and Nora Charles" is 100% intentional.) None of the "mystery" would even be very engaging if they didn't work, and the two actors are great together, making me want to see more from them. (Fortunately, there's another movie and many more books to film as well.)
The supporting cast besides Wetherall aren't bad, and Sean Young appears in a cameo where she's not exactly wasted, but one wished her role had been much larger. The target audience for this movie becomes more than apparent by the casting of Falcon porn-god Matthew Rush as a C.I. of Strachey's. Nice to know that along with his incredible looks, Rush CAN actually say lines convincingly and not bump into the furniture, (in spite of a blanket prejudicial perception applied to many of the "actors" from that particular part of the industry.)
As I mentioned before, the settings in which the film takes place are more than overtly "Vancouveresque", although the story is supposed to be taking place somewhere in the U.S. - a snag that hamstrings many North American productions, but definitely more of those films of the lower-budget variety.
Director Ron Oliver still plays it smart by concentrating on the more 'noir-ish' aspects of the drama, and the appealing chemistry of the cutest gay couple in crime-solving. Here's hoping that everyone ups the ante in future episodes, because all things considered, THIRD MAN OUT is still an engaging, entertaining start.
A Real Detctive Story
TpaBart4 August 2006
I just saw this video, and was impressed heaps with the story, a good detective vid, and the actors, for the most part. Chad was massive in his starring role. The only negative I saw was the inclusion of Matthew Rush, in what was a cameo, that could have been done better with a real actor in the role. It was a good detective show, though the ending was a bit questionable, in terms of most crime solving shows. It did though show off the skills of a lot of actors. Chad was so satisfying to see in this adult role. He is an actor that we need to see more of. The rest of the cast, (forgive me for my feelings, of Matt Rush, with his scene that showed little acting ability, limited to a gratuitous segment) gave the performances that we could expect from them, due to past performances. I kept thinking, that if we could accept a good mystery/detective show, with a lead that was gay, Chad could carry it off. He has grown up well, and shows his skill. Bottom line, I really enjoyed it. This may not be at CSI level as a crime mystery, but it at a comfortable level. Chad has star quality, from what I saw. The character he established would be a strong role for a series, that goes beyond his orientation. I really would like to see the next case that they need to work. This vid made me a fan of Chad's. Great work guy.
Chad needs the chance to give us more.
Chad needs the chance to give us more.
Thoroughly Surprised...
Coralknight16 February 2017
...by all the positive reviews here, but absolutely NOT by the caliber of this film. How this gay detective "made for TV" film ever came into existence is the REAL mystery here. Chad Allen as the lead is probably the best actor in this piece, which frankly says a lot. But unless you are a die-hard fan, he's not really strong enough to carry-off the lead in any film. The "made for TV" feel (i.e. sappy/up-beat background music, boxy cinematography and overall pace) seems odd and out of place with full-frontal nudity (think "Murder She Wrote" meets gay porn). The rest of the acting range goes from TV-bad to porn-bad...which is VERY bad. Overall, the high production values (once again, think "Murder She Wrote") and overall polish make it palatable for someone who is into gay-themed movies and wants to kill some time with a little brain-candy.
A Stylish Film Noir Blending Suspense, Humor, and Insights into Gay Life
gradyharp9 September 2006
Ron Oliver is to be commended for bringing this first story from the Donald Strachey Mysteries by Richard Stevenson (screenplay by Mark Saltzman) to the screen. This first story is so well written, directed, acted and filmed that it can only give us hope that the other novels in the Donald Strachey series will be forthcoming.
The story is a modern detective story that takes place in Albany, New York and is complete with realistic characters, a fine plot well paced, and a number of twists and turns that keep the audience not only entertained but glued to the screen. The difference, here, is that the detective Strachey (Chad Allen in an impressive performance) happens to be a gay man, well adjusted, living with his wholesome and tender partner Timmy (Sebastian Spence). The action involves a gay activist John Rutka (Jack Wetherall) with a penchant for outing political figures whose agenda is not friendly to the community. He likewise lives with a healthy life partner Eddie (Woody Jeffreys) and the two seem targeted for death by apparent candidates for Rutka's next outing computer magazine. Strachey is engaged to protect Rutka despite initial, partner-supported feelings that Rutka disrupts closeted men's lives too ruthlessly. But take the case on he does and he proves to be not only smart but wise while remaining a lovable detective. The plots thickens and surprises are everywhere just as good detective mysteries should have. But along the way the film takes the time to make some cogent statements about the clergy and politicians and other significant matters that raises this movie to a fine level of social consciousness.
The cast is excellent and the love scenes are beautifully presented. There is even some beefcake (Matthew Rush as the 'Dik Steele' porn star in the buff) and club scenes to lighten the action. The film includes a superb featurette with Ron Oliver discussing how the film made it to the screen and includes for once some healthy conversation from openly gay actors who are enlightened about their roles. Though obviously a 'gay film', the story and production are so strong that any audience will find this a fine mystery! Highly recommended.
The story is a modern detective story that takes place in Albany, New York and is complete with realistic characters, a fine plot well paced, and a number of twists and turns that keep the audience not only entertained but glued to the screen. The difference, here, is that the detective Strachey (Chad Allen in an impressive performance) happens to be a gay man, well adjusted, living with his wholesome and tender partner Timmy (Sebastian Spence). The action involves a gay activist John Rutka (Jack Wetherall) with a penchant for outing political figures whose agenda is not friendly to the community. He likewise lives with a healthy life partner Eddie (Woody Jeffreys) and the two seem targeted for death by apparent candidates for Rutka's next outing computer magazine. Strachey is engaged to protect Rutka despite initial, partner-supported feelings that Rutka disrupts closeted men's lives too ruthlessly. But take the case on he does and he proves to be not only smart but wise while remaining a lovable detective. The plots thickens and surprises are everywhere just as good detective mysteries should have. But along the way the film takes the time to make some cogent statements about the clergy and politicians and other significant matters that raises this movie to a fine level of social consciousness.
The cast is excellent and the love scenes are beautifully presented. There is even some beefcake (Matthew Rush as the 'Dik Steele' porn star in the buff) and club scenes to lighten the action. The film includes a superb featurette with Ron Oliver discussing how the film made it to the screen and includes for once some healthy conversation from openly gay actors who are enlightened about their roles. Though obviously a 'gay film', the story and production are so strong that any audience will find this a fine mystery! Highly recommended.
An Interesting Start
halfsmile1981-124 August 2006
Based on the novel by Richard Stevenson, "Third Man Out" presents a flawed but interesting mystery. Where gays have often been presented as flat characters in mysteries, and only as either victims or villains, "Third Man Out" attempts to show a broader picture of being gay while also revealing the seedy underside of the "normal" heterosexual community. There are some weak points in the plot as the film attempts to hide from the viewer who is responsible for the threats, and a few minor characters don't seem invested in the movie. However, I think Chad Allen and Jack Wetherall portray their characters well, and make the movie a worthwhile viewing experience.
Chad Allen a natural
guil1229 May 2009
What better and more normal casting than to have an openly gay man play an openly gay character. Brilliant, Ron Oliver, also an openly gay director. With a terrific actor like Chad Allen, the story and direction has a natural flow to it. For once gay people aren't treated with kid gloves and hushed silence. They are represented as normal everyday people who happen to be gay. This I tribute to not only a wonderful scenario by Mark Saltzman, adapted from the gay detective series written by Richard Stevenson, but an excellent supporting cast backing up Allen's natural and genuine performance.
Sebastian Spence plays his other half. Although he is straight (ugh I hate that word) he seems to easily work well with Allen. You can see the trust and enjoyment they have in their working relationship. Spence brings charm and humor to his Myrna Loy type role. In supporting roles there is Jack Wetherall, from QAF, playing a ruthless gay outer in the political fields. A good actor, and I hear also an acting teacher as well. Handsome well built Woody Jeffreys plays his lover and worth watching; the delightful Sean Young in a very small role; David Palffy as a not so nice guy, out to settle the score with Allen; Daryl Shuttleworth, as a cop who works with Allen eventually in finding the answers to a murder; Nelson Wong in a small role as a hotel clerk who eventually becomes part of the Starchey team in latter films; Rob deLeeuw in a small role as a puppeteer with a dark past and finally the one and only porn star, Matthew Rush, playing, guess what? A porn star. Go figure. He was funny to watch him play himself with tongue in cheek. Yes, he gets frontal views. Isn't that his business?
Get this movie. You'll get hooked. I intend to make a collection of all the Donald Starchey series.
Sebastian Spence plays his other half. Although he is straight (ugh I hate that word) he seems to easily work well with Allen. You can see the trust and enjoyment they have in their working relationship. Spence brings charm and humor to his Myrna Loy type role. In supporting roles there is Jack Wetherall, from QAF, playing a ruthless gay outer in the political fields. A good actor, and I hear also an acting teacher as well. Handsome well built Woody Jeffreys plays his lover and worth watching; the delightful Sean Young in a very small role; David Palffy as a not so nice guy, out to settle the score with Allen; Daryl Shuttleworth, as a cop who works with Allen eventually in finding the answers to a murder; Nelson Wong in a small role as a hotel clerk who eventually becomes part of the Starchey team in latter films; Rob deLeeuw in a small role as a puppeteer with a dark past and finally the one and only porn star, Matthew Rush, playing, guess what? A porn star. Go figure. He was funny to watch him play himself with tongue in cheek. Yes, he gets frontal views. Isn't that his business?
Get this movie. You'll get hooked. I intend to make a collection of all the Donald Starchey series.
See also
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