Cubby

Not since Episode 1 of Amazon's Emmy-sweeping FLEABAG have I taken such delight in identifying with a struggling--and let's be honest, probably mentally ill--protagonist. I quickly fell in love with Mark on the screen, in all of his hysterical and poignant tragicomedy.

This is a film that offers profound insight and asks questions of its audience, neurotypical/not, queer/straight alike. I had the privilege of seeing it last week at Fort Lauderdale's OUTSHINE Film Festival. As with any great art, I will continue to reflect on this film. For now what I really have to say is just WATCH IT IF YOU CAN.

P.S. For me, the appearance of the hunky LeatherMan alone made it worth the watch, but there's something for everyone in this beautiful production.

Mark Blane never lets up on the crazy energy and heartfelt emotions of a man overwhelmed by his imperfections. Super weird visuals and absurd characters deftly intersect with real-world mental illness, situations, and stakes. Go in with an open mind and it will charm you.

After reading the precis in the Frameline catalog, I was not so sure. But the film was a delight from the git-go. The main character is a total nerd, self-conscious to the point of discomfort, and out-of-place in the big city. "Sounds just like my kind of character!" said one friend. And yes he was, despite the description of him only having two friends, one 6 years old (and not a squirmy relationship) and the other imaginary. The audience actually cooed and roared its approval throughout. This film deserves a wide viewership.

After college, artistic Mark escapes from his Indiana hometown to a fake job in New York City, where he rents a room in the apartment of his college roommate. Taking a job as an after-school babysitter to a 6-year old, the 2 bond together very well. Meanwhile, he meets Leather Man, who may be a figment of his imagination, from a porn magazine he found at home years ago. In certain BDSM scenes, Leather Man tells him to seek his safe space, which to Mark is his childhood "cubby".

But Mark is not all together, especially financially, and prefers street drugs to his prescription pills. So reality intrudes, and he has to eventually adapt.

Mark was played by the writer / director, and I found the character absorbingly irritating. I was charmed by the line drawing illustrations that permeated the film - something Mark could likely have done. The net result is, to me, a mixed review.

One of those movies you see it once and that's enough, No deserve any recognition at all. Ridiculous plot.