Those People

As many fans of Queer cinema would know, the good ones are few and far between. Be it the reluctance of big studios to produce purely LGBTI content resulting in next-to-no- budget features in the Queer cinema genre or not, often the movies for us gay folk are pretty terrible - poor production standards, bad acting and cliché upon cliché upon cliché. Lately though, there has been some shining lights in this small genre. 'Henry Gamble's Birthday Party' is one and so is 'Those People'. Production standards here are very high, beautiful wide screen photography, particularly in low light night scenes; lush and appropriate music choices; and above average acting among a number of other merits. I stumbled across this gem on Apple TV and was immediately taken in by the seductive and moody trailer; and I wasn't disappointed - far from it. Some viewers might not like the lack of backstory here, as we are dropped into the lives of a clutch of arty and (mostly) wealthy young New Yorkers but slowly details are revealed, enough to really feel one among these characters at this pivotal time in their lives. There's plenty of tension and angst, and mercifully a lack of the usual queer cinema clichés. Questions (and loves) are left unanswered. I really don't won't to say too much about the story as it could spoil your immersion into the delicate world created here. Looking forward to seeing what this director and his leads show us next. Search this one out.

Pacing is a little slow, but there are many tender and emotional moments that more than make up for it.

This film tells the story of a young gay painter, who has a billionaire gay best friend. The best friend falls into disgrace when his father is convicted of a financial crime. Coupled with the arrival of a handsome pianist, their relationships are tested and an unstable love triangle is formed.

"Those People" is actually an above average gay film, as it has great production standards. The picture is clear, the lighting is great and the cinematography is nice. It does not feel low budget at all, which is a refreshing change. The two lead actors are handsome and likable, but the story is overly dramatic to be believable. The pianist is a little too forward and premature in expressing his feelings, and Sebastian on the balcony is an overly dramatic over reaction. If the plot was more normal and less dramatic, I would have loved this film.

IMO overall rate is a bit low, so don't skip this movie after looking at the ratings, as the film is emotionally great. This film will make you feel the emotion ups and downs and struggle with the protagonist, his budding love, and his childhood friend who keeps chaining him down. Its really impacting.

I think the ending saves this movie, because it gets lost a bit in the middle (maybe it's the fact that I do not like Tim). Reminds me a little of Kings and Planets. Although the protagonist is not bad, I think Jason Ralph carries the movie.