Rites of Passage

The theme is old by now: estrangement between a gay son and his father. However, this issue is only a part of a complex web of surprises that creates a very entertaining thriller. This is a beautiful film, not just about sexuality, but about relationships. My wife and I were captivated with the story, sitting on pins and needles waiting to see how it would end. Highly recommended.

I have been spoiled by watching non-American movies. I used to say European movies, but movies from South America, some parts of Asia, and even Mexico are now as good as European movies. What movies from other countries often have that American movies almost never have is subtlety. Whether it's comedy, drama, suspense, sex, or any other genre, American movie makers assume American audiences have to be hit over the head with whatever they're watching or they won't get it.

In this movie, for example, when Son catches Dad with Girlfriend in Hotel, then when Dad and Son catch Younger Gay Son in Cabin, EVERYBODY has to overact, so that the audience will be sure to get the point that bad stuff is happening. Why, oh why does Hollywood think we're stupid? Is it because we are? Maybe. In any case, this movie's drama is far too heavy-handed for me.

In less than ten minutes, I already know everything there is to know about these three characters, and I'm willing to bet the "twists" other reviewers rave about are the same oh-so-predictable "twists" Hollywood has been delighting noise-deafened, brain-dulled audiences with since Witness for the Prosecution 60 years ago. I'd much rather have to take time and figure out for myself what's going on between characters than be hit so hard by the director and actors with such a heavy drama hammer that it leaves me reeling and nauseous.

This is basically a character-driven thriller exploring some routine familial issues between a middle-class father and his two sons. I say routine, because the conflicts are reasonably familiar: the father's having a mid-life, extra-marital fling; one son's gay; and the other son's bogged down in his own suburban mediocrity; not to mention that the whole drama takes place overnight in the woods, an almost absurd setting for all the abounding macho bonding. In spite of this theatrical, TV-movie veneer, RITES OF PASSAGE is still a satisfying low-budget feature thanks to a very appealing cast and the mature, sure-handed direction of Victor Salva (POWDER). It's an involving little ensemble drama with an amazing amount of tension and truth. No small mention should be made of Jason Behr, a WB-TV pretty-boy type who really carries the picture with a surprisingly inspired performance; although a lot of sympathy for his character is still a result of his physical appeal, he does a very good job here alongside excellent performers like Dean Stockwell and James Remar. Still, I doubt if a lot of the enthusiasm for this film would be there without Behr's good looks. In spite of what I've read in a few of the other reviews, the little bit of violence and profanity in this picture are of the PG-13 variety; as a matter of fact, it could have been a bit more aggressive with it's sexuality and brutality in order to intensify the motivations culminating in this one-night, boys-to-men catharsis. I'll tell you, though, it's too bad family crises aren't this easily resolved by a boy's night out in the woods.

It's a pity that RITE OF PASSAGE is not more widely available and never received the praise it deserves. This is a complex film - an unusual mix of thriller and family drama. Queer cinema fans will like this one because of the matter of fact presentation of the sexuality of the leading character Cambell (intelligently played by Jason Behr.) Although this is Behr's film, he's in terrific company throughout, especially with veteran Dean Stockwell as his tough-as-nails dad. Watching these two come to terms (as well as Cam's brother), is the film's main dramatic thrust. The thriller elements are far from ignored, however. There are plot twists and turns a-plenty (only one of which seemed a bit contrived) and the story is a virtual roller-coaster of emotions. If you can get it on DVD, Behr and Salva provide an insightful commentary track and give you a glimpse of some more plot devices (and some super performances) left on the cutting room floor.

The advent of the DVD progressing from the VHS brings about a new opportunity for more information to be included in its format. It's quite similar to the LP recording's graduation from its 78 rpm predecessor, with the LPs providing greater space for including more material. Now the DVDs are offering most interesting "extras" in its packaging.

One such "bonus" is the Commentary Track, in which selected production members provide verbal comments as the film plays throughout its entire run. Some of these tracks are excellent, one example being Director Anthony Minghella's for his "The Talented Mr. Ripley." The director there was downright eloquent, and his running remarks are most informative.

In the case of "Rites of Passage" Director Victor Salva joins leading player Jasan Behr for a full-length commentary. This track is almost almost as entertaining as the film itself, as it offers fascinating tidbits about the production--some completely surprising, which makes one appreciate the dedication and effort that it took to bring this indie thriller to the screen.

The commentary doesn't replace the movie, though, which is a fairly successful, if somewhat talky, enterprise. The cast is just fine, headed by the remarkable now-veteran Dean Stockwell, with James Remar and Rob Keith assisting Behr, who in turn offers a solid performance in the lead, difficult role of Cambell.

Watching the movie and then going to the Commentary, one really can appreciate the process behind realizing this final product, shot well under a three week schedule.

It's great to have the advantage which the DVD format now affords. I for one, really appreciate being able to be "let in" on the behind-the-scenes productional details. Of course, it can take away some of the realistic effect the film conveys--rather like being informed of how a magician does his illusions. But it's just an option that one may or may not choose to take advantage of.

As a package deal, "Rites of Passage" is well worth the cost. As a singular film experience, it's a bit wordy effort in which the whole doesn't quite measure up to the sum of its parts. Yet there's no denying the cast works at peak level of commitment and effort in attempting to purge the essence of their characters.

In the meantime, we can be thankful for the new opportunites the DVD format provides. There's great indication this format will eventually absorb the VHS technology -- just like the CDs replaced the LPs in the recording industry. Time marches on. Like, rapidly.