Partner(s)

Just watched this again, I liked it even better this time. I am a lawyer and that subplot was portrayed correctly, but this was really just a standard romantic comedy, although funnier than most. The acting was excellent, including the supporting characters. I don't think this was ever released in theaters but I see it was on TV, it looks a lot more professionally made than many other independent films I have seen and in some places is quite beautiful. There are some really funny moments that are unrelated to the love story, and there are some tender moments that were well-written and well-acted. The movie seems a bit short at 90 minutes, but I prefer that to a movie that is padded or has a lot of boring exposition.

Dave (Jay Harrington) and Katherine (Julie Bowen) are rivals for the one partner opening at a successful law firm. Dave is smart and scrupulous while Katherine is as despicable and conniving as they make them. One day, Dave is specifically asked to handle a discrimination case and he jumps at the chance. With such a high profile, the case will surely enhance his chances to make partner. He is beaming until he learns why he was selected! It seems the client believes him to be gay and, thus, best suited to handle the suit in question, a gay, work-related discrimination case. But, Dave is straight, having eyes only for women. Yet, if he refuses the assignment, Katherine is certain to take over. Therefore, Dave decides to play the role of a gay man. Things get complicated when a beautiful woman named Lucy (Brooke Langton), the defendant's daughter, garners Dave's affections. Can Dave win the case quickly, so he can declare his love for Lucy? This is a funny and romantic film but its gay themes make it a touchy one for some viewers. How does one "act gay" without playing a stereotype, for starters. And, is the resulting depiction something to be laughed over, at all? Everyone loves a case of mistaken identity, its true, but this plot seems guaranteed to offend the audience at some point. On the other hand, Harrington is really quite wonderful as the sensitive lawyer and Bowen has her she-devil role down pat. Langton and the other cast members give nice performances, too. Then, too, the costumes are very fine, as are the settings and production values. If you adore funny tales of love, you should probably take a chance with this one, as Hollywood can not seem to churn them out fast enough for the true romcom fan. But, if you are looking for a movie that will suit a wider audience, you might want to try While You Were Sleeping or Return to Me instead.

PARTNER(S) is an extremely watchable film. The story centers on a young lawyer looking to be made partner in his law firm so he allows a client to think he's gay. Although he lives with a gay friend, he's anything but. Convincing everyone is the film's main comic thrust. Complications ensue, but (naturally) none that can't be overcome neatly in 90 minutes. This film has an upbeat and polished feeling that helps compensate for it's minor shortcomings. The acting is good, the writing is competent and the soundtrack and photography are slick. Our hero is cut straight (pardon the pun) from the "Will & Grace" mold, complete with funky hair (he never really looks quite professional enough, even dressed to the nines). In fact, this could easily be a less manic episode of "Ally McBeel". If there's anything this light comedy lacks it is bite. Everything's a bit too easy to digest but for those looking for a light snack, it's a pleasant enough diversion.

Because I consider myself a harsh critic, I was really surprised by how much I liked this film. I thought it was just a very well told and well acted story. A good adult comedy about people working at a law firm is difficult to pull off, but this movie does it. I really like Julie Bowen and I'm surprised she played 'the bitch' role so well. Only because I find her to be very likable. The guy that played her assistant was really funny also. Jay Harrington was very good. I never saw him in anything before. I think he's a good comedic lead. Not too 'over the top.' It was refreshing. As I'm thinking back about the movie now, I'm smiling. That's how I know I liked it. It was just a good, smart, and funny film.

I really enjoyed this film, which surprised me, because I expected a predictable "straight guy tries to be gay" plot. The actors are inventive and quick, which helps with a somewhat trifling plot. It's pretty clear where things are going, but you don't really feel taken for a ride, which is rare in this type of film. It's a surprisingly well-acted and quick-moving story that avoided obvious twists and complications--until the last ten minutes, that is, when it quickly falls apart and feels fake. For some bizarre reason the obvious resolutions don't take place, and instead you get a forced and awkward wrap-up. It's a shame to see a decent film ruined like this. It almost seems like someone "up there" ordered a change in the script to make the film bland and boring at the very end. Too bad. It was off to a good start and middle.