Spoiler Alert

Just when you think this 2022 dramedy will succumb to predictable tropes that harken back to "Love Story" and "Brian's Song", director Michael Showalter does something quite unexpected whether it's the persistent use of a 1980's-era sitcom or the meet-cute set-up that felt like it came from the same spandex-heavy era. The title is a cheeky reference to the inevitable conclusion of this love story, but it's the quirky way he and co-writers David Marshall Grant and Dan Savage handle the otherwise somber material. Based on Michael Ausiello's real-life relationship with photographer Kit Cowan, it follows their fourteen years together in episodic fashion but forsakes heavy scene chewing for more subtle character development. Not all of the scenes work, but the performances resonate. As Michael, Jim Parsons doesn't shed years of playing Sheldon but moves quite effectively into emotionally complex territory even if his Shirley MacLaine moment came across a bit forced. No stranger to this genre, Sally Field plays Kit's mother with touching grace and strength, and her triathlete aspirations reminded me how she could run to Texas and back but not Shelby in "Steel Magnolias". However, the film's real standout is Ben Aldridge as Kit. His magnetic presence lends a natural charm to the comedy scenes, and he brings genuine pathos to the most devastating moments. This is definitely an actor to watch in the future.

Most LGBTQ movies you see are riddled with stereotypes, sex and falsehoods. This is one that doesn't fall into those things, but shows you a genuine adult homosexual relationship and how it truly is. The good times and the hard times, this film doesn't pull it's emotional punches. Bring tissues, you will need them for the final act that, while sad, isn't meant to be spirit breaking. Instead, I felt it was uplifting. While it does get off to a rocky start by just throwing us into this story, it quickly grows on you after the initial start. I don't particularly care for Jim Parsons but I felt he was perfect for the role and the chemistry he eventually attains with the other lead is palpable and felt. Highly recommended, as it's one of the most true to life depictions of a gay relationship.

4.5 heartbreaks out of 5.

Given the jokey title,"Spoiler Alert," I expected very little from this movie, but it proved to be a pleasant surprise from start to finish, from the clever device of the flashbacks in sitcom frames to the excellent acting by a wonderful cast. Main characters Michael and Kit are very real young men, each with his own history and issues with coming out as gay. Jim Parsons does a beautiful, nuanced job portraying Michael, and there's the extra layer of Michael being portrayed by Jim Parsons, former star of a popular sitcom, telling about the pain of growing up in sitcom-staged scenes. The way that Kit's parents embraced him and his relationship with Michael was well done, thanks to the intelligent script and the performances of Sally Field and Bill Irwin.

This is a love story, heartfelt, funny, and affirming. Well-written and finely acted -- I recommend it.

There is nothing innovative about the narrative arc of Spoiler Alert, and we are told right at the very beginning how the story is going to end. But the feeling of authenticity conveyed by the leads is what makes this movie worth watching.

The story is about the 13-year relationship between Michael (Jim Parsons) and Kit (Ben Aldridge) as they navigate life together. The movie starts with Michael lying on a hospital bed next to Kit as he approaches his death from cancer. We then go back in time from Michael and Kit's first meeting and follow them over the years as they move from one stage of their relationship to another. As the story progresses, we are shown how the couple's love for each other changes over time. This is explored through various plot points, such as getting to know each other, their everyday lives, Michael's struggle with depression and Kit's battle with cancer. Each situation shows how the couple must adapt their relationship despite life's challenges.

The movie also explores communication, trust, loyalty, and commitment. The couple's conversations are often humorous and realistic, which helps to make the film feel more authentic. We also get a glimpse into the struggles of being in a long-term relationship and how difficult it can be to stay connected when life throws curveballs at you.

The performances by Jim Parsons and Ben Aldridge are outstanding as they bring their characters to life with great emotion and depth. They manage to capture the complexities of relationships in an honest way that is easy for us to relate to.

Spoiler Alert (2022) is a thoughtful and heartfelt movie that explores how relationships can change over time despite life's challenges. It has an authentic feel that will resonate with viewers who have experienced similar situations in their own lives. With solid performances, this movie will leave a lasting impression. And take some tissues - you will need them.

Finally a movie that shows the ups and downs of love. The genders don't matter to me at all, it was refreshing to see love between two people in such a raw and real way. The high of the initial meeting and first dates, the awkward family meeting, the normal relationship struggles, and the power of love through the darkest of times. Many of us never experience that full level of commitment in a relationship. I don't care what you think about same sex relationships, this is a very raw and heartfelt connection between two people who love each other through multiple struggles. I felt so many emotions while watching this movie. Very well done!