Change Your Image
Chris_F_55
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Reviews
Made to be Men (2018)
A sensitive exploration of a gay encounter during WWII
This short film was directed and written by George Wilson as part of a final year degree project. It stars Simon Stallard as William and Michal Szpunt as Tommy. It is a sensitive exploration of a homosexual encounter by two infantrymen during the Second World War.
The screenplay, filmed under sometimes difficult conditions, is a credit to all concerned.
Despite the short duration of the film the director and actors were able to portray the growing relationship and bond between the two young men which is counterpointed by the brash fierceness of the lieutenant played by Rad Brown.
There is little in the way of action and high drama only an attack by a single plane and a clumsy but well-meaning kiss. No passionate bedroom scenes simply a fade to black.
At the time of writing, the film can be viewed on YouTube - ten minutes well spent!
Jet Boy (2001)
A great movie despite some weaknesses
Despite some weakness to the credibility of the plot development, I enjoyed this film from start to finish. The ending, although perhaps a little soppy, was what I was hoping for although pushed a little far by Boon returning, almost instantly, to his former teen lover of twenty years past and her boy.
The part of Nathan was beautifully and convincingly portrayed by Branden Nadon who, I felt, gave a stunning performance as the hardened streetwise prostitute who has just the same needs and desires as everyone else. The most poignant lines for me were where he said he just wanted to be a good kid and to have a father to help with his homework and go fishing and camping.
Boon and Nathan become slowly attracted despite Boon's reluctance to get into any relationship. Boon's dying father did not provide him with the paternal love and guidance he would have wished for. This reluctance also shows through when he tells his former teen lover that he is not the same man that she knew - he perhaps fears their relationship might be rekindled and him having to take responsibility. Boon strikes me as a character who wishes to avoid responsibility for himself or others. He doesn't wish to collect Nathan from the police station whilst trying as hard as he can to build barriers between them for fear of them becoming closer.
Nathan's craving for a paternal figure and someone to take responsibility for and care for him are consistent with my own real-life experiences. Sadly there are too many neglected and damaged youngsters in need of love and affection. The desperation to find someone to fill that void can sometimes lead to undesirable situations.
This is definitely a feel-good movie which I would happily recommend.