Urbania

I just caught "Urbania" on IFC. What a terrific surprise! I had no idea this film even existed.

"Urbania" is one of those rare films that grabs you by the back of the neck and holds holds you hostage until the final credits. It's as if one were shadowing the lead character as he plays out the fate of a lonely and harrowing night, facing demons of circumstance as well as a few monsters he creates himself.

Watching this film, I felt as if I was being forced to examine some disturbing sides of life when all I wanted to do was turn my head and look another direction. Much like driving upon a tragic car accident, it's hard not to stare but, by the brute force of some macabre fascination that lives deep in the human psyche, one feels compelled to do just that.

While "Urbania" is a tragedy, the content is handled with a sense of grace and humility. During the final frames, one is left with a feeling of relief and healing, although tainted with the bitterness of loss.

The direction, screenplay and style of "Urbania" is superb. The acting is fantastic. This film is a must see!

I stumbled across this flick on late night TV while it was well into the movie and got intrigued by its tone and flavor. I later had to seek it out so I could see the entire thing. I found it a REALLY good watch. Some people will really hate it though. It isn't a movie for everyone. It is rather dark and brooding, and maybe even a little depressing. The humor is black and it deals with unclear emotions and psychology. Dan Futterman does a great job with his character and it was a pleasant surprise to learn that he had some real acting talent under his boyish looks. His character, Charlie, is suffering a kind of breakdown from grief, guilt and rage. The movie basically deals with how he functions daily and about the strangeness of the others and events of the city around him. Watching his personal journey and his transformation is certainly worth the time and money you will spend on the rental.

I saw this movie about 2 years ago and I still recommend it to my friends. I did just that today actually.

The whole movie is an emotional ride. What's going on? Why did he leave him? The ending had me in tears. It was so sad seeing a wonderful relationship destroyed. I don't want to give anything away because it was such a moving movie.

Some made a comment about this movie being too gay. Yes it involved 2 gay men, but I think straight people should see this movie as well to see that relationships are all the same. Some get destroyed for the wrong reasons. And just think, gay people can say that MOST movies are too straight. But then there wouldn't be many movies to go see. So, gay or straight, just watch it for the storyline and meaning.

Finally! A gay-themed movie with some depth! It is REALLY refreshing to see a movie about gay men that goes beyond their sexual orientation. It seems that most gay-themed movies in recent years are just about teenagers coming out to their parents. Although some of these films have been good ("Edge of Seventeen" for example), it is very nice to see a movie where the main character's sexuality is not the focal point of the film. While homosexuality plays a substantial role in what "Urbania" is about, it is not the centerpiece of the story. This film actually has a hauntingly resonant story, well-written and memorable characters, a terrific ensemble cast, and brilliant direction by Jon Shear in a directorial debut.

I really loved how this film was directed in a non-linear fashion. You only gradually learn why the main character, Charlie, (Dan Futterman in a great performance) is so troubled. The climax of the film and the resolution are both heart-stopping and cathartic. And there are many great scenes that lead up to this finale that are alternately hilarious and emotionally moving.

One of the best of the year 2000. I think I will see it again.

I can't say much more than has already been said about the film, but this is only one of two gay themed movies I've seen that is actually a movie. I say that meaning you could actually plug any straight or gay character into any role and the movie would still have an interesting story and time line reference. It was very well thought out and put together and in my opinion had every element of a good film which I can't say about any other gay themed movies. Some are good because of the story, and most are just plain bad (except for the costumes and sets - lol).

I don't think this is a film for everyone but I do think Gay film makers should take a look at this movie and understand that just a steady camera and an every day drama do not a great film make.