When it’s decision time about what to rent or stream over the Thanksgiving holiday, the choices are limitless. Unfortunately, some titles get overlooked.
With that in mind, here are short takes on a couple of recent LGBTQ-themed features released by Breaking Glass Pictures along with two gems available from Wolfe Releasing.
“My Best Friend”: Essential in crafting a successful coming-of-age drama is the creation of characters that are interesting and a storyline that is evocative, even provocative. Filmmaker Martin Deus and his talented young cast (Angelo Mutti Spinetta and Lautaro Rodriguez) have done just that with a poignant tale about unanticipated friendships and sexual discovery. When the troubled son (Rodriguez) of a family friend moves in, bookworm Lorenzo (Spinetta) finds his sheltered, lonely and well-organized life in a Patagonian town getting disrupted in important ways. Deus adopts a low-key approach, but still navigates his story into some tough territories. It’s always authentic and forever true to its characters. Watch it and you’ll see why it has a 100 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. (Available to rent on Google Play)
“My Big Gay Italian Wedding”: The title of director Alessandro Genovesi’s bubbly romantic comedy perfectly sums up the persuasive predictability of this breezy, if minor confection based on an Off-Broadway show. The nuptials of two Berlin-based lovers (Dino Abbrescia and Cristiano Caccamo) in a small Italian village where one grew up triggers introspection, unresolved relationships and, of course, family drama. Undemanding in every way, it’s an upbeat crowd-pleaser. (Available for rent on Google Plus, iTunes, Vudu, Vimeo)
“Anchor & Hope”: Two lovers (Oona Chaplin and Natalia Tena) who live unfettered by commitments on a wandering houseboat in London consider having a baby, a decision that leads to rough waters ahead. Carlos Marques-Marcet’s feature anchors itself around a group of fine performances, including one from Geraldine Chaplin. (Available on various platforms)
“Mario”: Two of soccer’s rising stars become roommates and lovers in Marcel Gisler’s sexy, realistic story that illustrates how athletes are urged to stay in the closet. Leads Max Hubacher and Aaron Altaras are sensational in a heartbreaking drama that’s exceptionally well-directed. (Available on various platforms)
Randy Myers in Motion 