Mates

"Mates" (2023) is a heartwarming film that explores themes of sexuality and masculinity in a gentle and relatable manner. The movie showcases strong male characters, both gay and straight, set against the backdrop of a stunning hiking trail in England. Despite not being groundbreaking in the realm of LGBTQ+ cinema, "Mates" offers a sweet and nice-natured story with beautiful nature locations that highlight the UK's scenic beauty.

Reviewers have praised the film for its simplicity, character development, and cozy vibe, making it a pleasant watch for a laid-back afternoon. While some technical aspects may not be perfect, the unpredictability of the characters and their interactions keeps viewers engaged. Overall, "Mates" is a charming addition to gay films in 2023.

I liked this movie Mates which was a very low budget film but done very well and the ending makes it enjoyable.

This movie has its flaws in storytelling but anyone in the LGBTQ world can relate to the longing and heartache of starting a possible relationship.

The bully Mark, one has to think is he indeed jealous of his open minded friend Nathan and did they ever fool around?

And is Connor in love with Nathan as he travels over and hour to jog with his friend ? What more lies behind their motivations if any.

Adam is a very relaxed enjoyable open gay young man hiking with his father who accepts and loves him in whatever his life choices are a nice touch.

As a inde film producer myself ( Sister Mary ) I know how these reviews go because everyone with a PC thinks they are a critic and don't realize how hard it is to Produce a movie on a budget, that said I think this is a wonderful movie and I truly hope to see a sequel at some point. There is so much more to this story that can be explored. Cheer's James.

This film is a total snooze fest, don't know how I managed to stay awake for the entire film. Poor opening scene, watching someone walking up some stairs and then sitting on a bench waiting, how exciting. Although I quite enjoyed the Connor character and his quirkiness found the others characters uninteresting. Some of country side was nice to look at but was very disappointed with the ending, 1 hour and 20 minutes of my life I'll never get back. Would ask for a refund if that was an option. Has to be one of the worst films I've ever seen. So boring don't waste your time or money renting this.

I loved it. Time flew by so fast ! I think I might see it again.

I liked travelling through England's green hills, brooks and forests. I thought the actors were good. I really enjoyed seeing such a caring father and the story between Connor is his new friend is sweet. This is somethin that one can easily imagine to happen and it might those who might identify as a Connor. At last, it's really great to be able to have a good time watching a love story full of respect, tenderness and courage.

It's definitely a must see for eveyone but I'd say it can lit a spark into anyone who wants to believe in casual encounters.

This could have been so much better. The message was well setup but the plot waa pedestrian, the script amateur at best.

It comes across like a college drama class attempt at a movie.

The cinematography is good but the chemistry and the dialogue is severely short of the mark and doesn't drive the film forward.

A disappointing unfulfilled destination. Cut off with no resolution, thus following the standard trope of gay fim endings.

Sadness, loss, missed chances and a general downer.

I thought we had moved on with gay movies by now and stopped being locked into the victim and outsider narrative.

The most realistic part was the bully who actually delivered a good performance that felt natural.

The protagonist character was so isolated that it made no sense that he would have even embarked on the journey. This wasn't so much about gay guilt, shyness or subconscious homophobia but more about depression, self confidence and mental health.

You can feel sorry for someone only so far. But when they don't try to engage and accept friendship their fate become a self fulfilling prophecy.

Connor, the protagonist as such became irritating, selfish and a general tantrum driven bore. I would have had far less patience with someone who doesn't even try to embrace their own existence.