Reviews

I'm not one for plot summaries; so I will get right to the point. Find this movie. Whatever you do...just find it! Beautifully photographed, excellently acted, brilliantly directed, "Lola and Billy the Kid" (U.S. video release title) is a deeply affecting movie that gives us a rare glimpse into the gay-Turkish subculture of modern Berlin and introduces us to characters who -- though they may be far removed from ourselves -- are heartbreakingly real, utterly dynamic, and upliftingly human. The Suddendeutche Zeitung said this movie "has a touch of West Side Story and a pinch of Rebel Without a Cause." It is a very accurate statement. As one who tries to see every gay-themed film out there, I can honestly say that Lola jumps to the top of the list... a well-crafted, brilliant piece of filmmaking that is not only one of the best gay-themed films I've see, but also one of the best films of any genre I've come across. Like "My Beautiful Laundrette," Lola made me laugh, made me cry, and made me want to know more about the subculture and racial dynamics it represents.

Wow, I couldn't believe this film. All around bad. Stock characters, contrived situations, stiff acting, horrible script, awful direction and editing, and a very lame attempt at emotional manipulation. Characters change their emotional perspective for no reason and scenes which should have been deleted go on forever. You are also subjected to two very long music video moments where we are supposed to believe the characters are being introspective and metamorphosizing into fuller individuals...they're "growing." What is really happening is that the script doesn't justify their change; so the MTV deus ex machina is brought in. I must say, I applaud any film maker for getting a film done...especially a gay-themed film, but as a gay man I refuse to settle for something this weak or praise something just because it is gay-themed. Spend your time wisely. Go get "Lilies" or "Trick" or "My Beautiful Laundrette" or "Get Real." They may not all be art, but they have soul, a real story, truly dimensionl characters, charm, and a great deal of talent both in front of and behind the cameras.

Though marketed by Paramount Classics as a comedy, Get Real is actually more of a drama/coming of age/romance hybrid that stays with you for days after viewing it. Well crafted, this film is a touching and -- most importantly -- brutally honest tale of the coming of age of a gay "nerd", Steve, and his confused, jock boyfriend, John. As the story progresses it takes "the road less traveled" and keeps you on your toes, avoiding easy plot turns and trite answers. Beautifully cast, the film's stars are appealing, attractive, and refreshingly honest in their portrayals. Ben Silverstone plays Steve with a shyness and humor that reflects youth today. Brad Gorton as John, the "hotter than hot" jock boyfriend, is touching and realistic in his confusion and his alternating love for and mis-treatment of Steve. Turning in a wonderful performance as the "cuddly" Linda, Steve's best friend, is Charlotte Britain. The rest of the supporting cast shine as well. Beautifully photographed and expertly directed, this film sparkles and is one of the best "gay-themed" films I have ever seen. While it doesn't end the way I would like it to, it does stay true to itself and ends as it should...heatbreakingly uplifting and most importantly...true to life. In my ranking of the top 5 "gay-themed" films, Get Real comes in at #3.

1.) Lilies 2.) My Beautiful Laundrette 3.) Get Real 4.) Beautiful Thing 5.) Trick