Tru Loved

I saw this movie with a film class and every one of us thought it was god-awful. The writing is totally flat and the acting is even worse. The characters and situations only become more unbelievable as the movie drones on. So both of this girl's parents are gay? And her fake boyfriend is gay? And her real boyfriend's uncle/dad is gay? Are we really supposed to just swallow that? Come on. This movie could almost be funny in a campy way if it didn't take itself so seriously. I'm not criticizing its message--I happen to completely agree with it--I just don't appreciate being bashed over the head with it. This movie has all the subtlety and nuance of a tidal wave. A lisping, rainbow-colored, Madonna-singing tidal wave.

I saw this a year or so ago and it was great. I've mentioned it to many friends and we've been watching for it in theaters or on DVD ever since. I understand it is coming out on DVD in January 2010. I wish it had been released before Christmas, I'd have given copies to my friends as gifts.

Seeing it in the theater was great because the audience reaction was fun and infectious. There was so much out loud laughing and other reactions that it made it comfortable to do so myself. Everyone around me seemed to enjoy it as much as I did. It was funny and sad and instructive and - I think, an important movie for people to see; especially in these times. I recommend it highly.

See it. You'll be glad you did.

I too saw this about a year ago in Los Angeles.

My son had seen it at his school and was very excited about it – he and his friends thought it was great. Apparently they were showing it in schools as a learning tool.

When I saw it was showing in theaters, I went out of curiosity. I enjoyed it very much!

I agree with all Theresa Shell's comments here . . . it should be shown in all middle and high schools as well as PTA meetings throughout the country. … A gentle yet entertaining way of expanding our thought processes toward tolerance and understanding.

I understand that this movie was made shortly after a young high school student in Southern California had, because he was gay, been killed by a fellow student.

High school years are such a hard time for so many kids trying to struggle with all kinds of social stresses; being gay just one example, it can be just feeling unattractive or being very shy, or over weight, or under weight, or family struggles or feeling shut out of a group they admire, or breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, or being made fun of for any reason, or embarrassment over some thing that other people are not even aware of. It goes on and on. We all need to learn to accept others for who they are and realize, we all are struggling with who we are.

I absolutely loved this movie!! (and it seemed that the rest of the audience did too from their reactions). Here they took a serious subject, - one that is certainly timely, currently facing much publicity and discussion; - a great problem for many, emotionally, politically, legally and more - a hot button issue and in the news at this time, - and they presented it with clarity, and in a very entertaining way. I was moved deeply by this movie, but also very entertained and laughed out loud many times. Both the story and acting were excellent - a little over the top at times, but it fit well. For many people this subject is a little over the top. This movie teaches, without our realizing we are being shown or taught, about strength of character, compassion, understanding, tolerance and love. The lead actress, who played Tru, was outstanding. She was so natural. It felt real. I highly recommend this movie; especially for young people. They will love it, and unknowingly grow as a person from it as well

I think many people do not take a chance and find out the truth for themselves. In regard to movies, they depend on reviewers to take the chance and do the work for them. Doing so gives power to reviewers, which is an evil thing. Those very people who give away their rights will think that, since Roger Ebert dismissed 'Tru Loved', it is not a good movie and will not go to the trouble of finding out for themselves. And this confirms their prejudices and makes them feel secure.

'Tru Loved' is a very good movie indeed. So why did he dismiss it? Why dismiss a movie that deals wisely with two of the most difficult aspects of human relationships, sex and race, in an entertaining and unifying way. That has a fine story. That has excellent acting which is natural and convincing (Najarra Townsend, as 'Tru', is inspiring). That has the priceless effect on the audience of goodwill and fellowship. That is pure and genuine.

Why dismiss such a terrific movie? I think the reason is that Mr. Ebert did not give the movie a chance to unfold. As a result, he missed the whole point of 'Tru Loved'--which is human unity. Then, in response to criticism, he went back and justified his position, still missing the point.

Why did he miss the point that 'Tru Loved' is about human unity? Because of unconscious fears, distaste or antagonism? Because of physical illness? Because it reminded him of other movies he didn't like? Because it didn't taste like his cup of tea? Who knows why?

Personally, I love 'Tru Loved'! I think it is a marvelous movie! I recommend it to all my friends.

That's my review. But don't take my word for it, find out for yourself.