Change Your Image
treborlodge
Reviews
Release (2010)
Tough Love
This film represents another departure from the norm in gay themed films. It is a tough love film with striking images and sequences that allow the viewer to fill in the elliptically presented representation of prison life versus Catholic ideology and the controversy surrounding the red hot issue of euthanasia.
I won't pretend that I found it an easy watch because it isn't - what it is however is a cleverly constructed narrative that twists time with flashbacks and fantasy sequences that underpin the main thrust of the story.
I was left after seeing this film with a greater understanding and sense of the pain of love that exists between gay men especially when coupled with the contemporary issues explored.
It has probably not sat well with gay audiences because it is a film that is more than the usual gay fare. It has a strength of determination to it's approach that borrows with ease from well known films that are much loved and critical exemplars.
Given that the budget was so low it is amazing what has been pulled off in this film. Some of the cast clearly were relying on intuition when it came to their performances but the leads are seasoned professional and recognisable actors whose performances were not reduced by the amateurs supporting them - moreover it added an authenticity to the emotional journey.
I wasn't sure what to expect but more importantly I wasn't disappointed. Very interesting film. It was great to see a lengthy complimentary "making of" on the DVD which revealed an earnest engagement from all involved but also a great sense of fun whilst making it..good for them.
Shank (2009)
Simply great film making flaws and all
There are some long reviews on here that are bang on in their praise for this film to which I won't add another. The more negative reviews I simply don't get.
This is energetic, urgent, vibrant street independent film making - an example of indie film working and succeeding to professionally pull it off. It speaks a truth that is visceral and resonates with a reality often not told or observed in the gay film pantheon. This feels like a film made with a bigger budget than I suspect it had. Bravo this is a film that deserves better attention and I have no doubt will go down in the annals as a significant film from daring writers, a eagle eyed editor, a blasting score and soundtrack, an interesting director and a ambitious producers. Kudos to you all.