This is a very tender and realistic story that plots a loving relationship between two very likable guys in Manhattan through all it’s highs and lows over a decade starting in 1998. There were sadly more of the latter but this well made movie’s particular take was both honest and refreshing, and the fact that is was based on the story writer/director Ira Sachs and his one time partner Bill Clegg gave it even more resonance.
The movie’s title which refers to the preference of Paul the more unstable troubled partner’s needs, and its one of the very many concessions that Eric his naïve documentary film director makes to save this heartbreaking romance. The drama is essentially about finding one’s self-worth, and is exquisitely sad, even though there is a happy end of sorts it is not the one that you expect (or hopeless romantics would wish for).
This is movie that is definitely another very welcome addition to this new wave of realism in queer cinema. Following hot on the tales of last year’s smash indie hit ‘Weekend’ and soon to be released ‘Hors Les Murs’, it tackles its story and subjects head on without resorting to frothing it up and ensuring that everyone lives happily ever after. Full credit to Mr Sachs but also to his relatively unknown but superb young cast : Erik was played by Danish actor Thure Lindhardt (‘Flame & Citron’) and Paul by Zachary Booth from TV’s ‘Damages’
It rightly won the prestigious Teddy Award at the Berlin International Film Festival, and it’s now available on VOD & DVD everywhere.
I saw it in Sundance in 2013, and its been very much in my thoughts since then, and I am giving it my highest rating. Trust me, you will really kick yourself if you miss this one.
