Abschiedsblicke

Parting Glances tells the story of two gay lovers living in the west village, Micheal and Robert! Robert is about to leave New York to spend a year in Africa, Micheal in the meantime is caring for Nick (Played by a very young Steve Buscemi) a close friend and a former lover now dying of AIDS. Complications arise when it appears that Micheal is still in love with Nick and is questioning his relationship "aka Marriage" with Robert. Also Micheal has captured the eyes of a Columbia student who works at a nearby record store who is very persistent. Robert in the meantime is showing signs of jealousy towards Nick because of his closeness with Micheal. Without a doubt a highlight in gay cinema. Highly recommended! This film shows far more depth and substance in an hour and a half than a whole season of the narcissistic queens on "Queer as Folk"

It's been almost 15 years since "Parting Glances" was first released and ten years since I last saw it, but today I just finished watching the newly-released DVD and was charmed all over again by this wonderful movie. Superbly acted, wonderfully scripted and confidently directed, this engaging story of two lovers at a crossroads in their relationship has held up remarkably well over the years. Sadly, this was director Sherwood's one and only film; he died a few years later of AIDS, disillusioned by the difficulties of getting movies made in Hollywood.

The DVD transfer is crystal-clear and includes some interesting production notes that only add to the experience of watching Sherwood's singular masterpiece. Whether you're gay or straight, if you appreciate the art of cinema you owe it to yourself to add this sweet little film to your movie collection.

Not often do films come across as truly real. Not scripted, or acted but as if a day in the life. In no way could it be described as Over the Top. Steve Buscemi was the reason I bought this. I am a big fan of all of his work and had missed this one. He was good here again. I love how it is so eighties. I was 23 when this movie was made and I could get right into it as if in a time warp.

Dated also by the scene where Michael said he needed to get a word processor and the man told him it was around $4,000 dollars and he should wait until the prices fell. Another scene I liked was two deaf men signing at a gay bar. Cleverly flamboyant.

I can't add anything that hasn't already been said and said better than me.

If you're looking for the best movie about being gay during the height of the AIDS epidemic, skip "Longtime Companion" and watch this film. Funny, sad and true to life. Well written, well acted....check out Kathy Kinney and Steve Buscemi at the beginning of their careers.

The movie is never preachy or sappy. And there are some Bronski Beat tunes used to very nice effect.

The true crime is that AIDS claimed writer / director Bill Sherwood before he could make another film. This was his only movie - a perfect example of how this disease has robbed the world of a generation of talented individuals.

I think that Parting Glances is a brilliant film. One thing I can add to the other comments on this film is to say that I think Parting Glances resonates so strongly with everyone because it is primarily a film about relationships, particularly friendship. The characters just happen to be gay, even though it spares no details about their lives. This approach actually gives more integrity and advocacy to the characters' lives. I can't tell you how refreshing this elevation of tone was to me. Nick and Michael admit that their short affair quickly turned to friendship. If you have ever had a real friend, someone you see and understand and who sees and understands you, you will relate to Nick and Michael, no matter what your sexual orientation. Plus, the texture of the film is so rich -- with scenes funny, touching, sad, biting and complex.

I agree with the user comment made by Helena that Bill Sherwood is a great director. I too was very saddened by his early death.