Le 24ème Jour

"The 24th Day" is one of those movies that you really have to be in the mood for. It may not seem like it at first, but as soon as things change for James Marsden's character Dan, things change for the viewer also. "The 24th Day" is a very thought-provoking film, which due to it's content is not everyone's sort of film, but being such an unusual and rare sort of film, is a great film to watch and perhaps for some people, after watching, may come out with a greater understanding of the issues in the film, one of the obvious being HIV.

Few and far between are there films where homosexual characters are portrayed as normal people, and this is one of them, so when the HIV aspect of the film was introduced it seemed rather odd - do all gay related films have to be about HIV? The answer is of course no, and the film does, through Marsden's character Dan, strongly point out that HIV is in no way a "gay disease", which is a good point, as there seems to be not enough awareness of this, however, the people that need to be aware of that are probably not going to be the ones watching this film anyway. However, it would have been interesting if the film did not have the HIV aspect and for it to be a psychological thriller or something with one guy obsessed with the other years after they first met.

But I digress. James Marsden was wonderful in a role that seems very removed from his usual films, kudos to him. Scott Speedman also did a fantastic job of portraying his character Tom. Essentially a 2-character film (as it is adapted from a theatrical performance), it can get quite monotonous at points, but the actors both stay in good form. Overall, a powerful and effective film.

Low budget drama at its best. Not a huge amount of money was spent in the making of this film, but that just added to the context of this movie. It was nice to see 2 actors, relying on their acting skills alone, making the movie work from all angles.

I liked this film for it's simplicity and storyline. A lot of films these days tends to rely on special effects, confusing plots and endings that are not satisfying. But I am happy to say that all of these things were absent from this film. Was definitely a satisfying way to spend 90 minutes.

Simple,interesting viewing and didn't go to extremes to make it entertaining and enjoyable.

My rating is 7 out of 10 and well worth watching.

This is another film I purchased without knowing a thing about it, and wound up being quite glad I did. The premise of this film had me on the edge of my seat from the very first gut-wrenching conflict, in a film that was filled to the brim with gut-wrenching conflicts. The acting of both principals in this essentially two-character piece was first rate, and helped to elevate it high above most standard gay-themed fare. But what really made this picture superior to 90% of the gay titles I've purchased in the past year was the confrontation of real issues that gay men should be discussing, but frequently shy away from. Without giving away the plot, let me say that almost every minute of the taught, carefully crafted script is imbued with thoughtful discussion on issues that are all to frequently ignored by sexually active gay men. I didn't see the ending coming at all, and the ultimate, positive and healthy message – that everyone is responsible for their own conduct, and the consequences thereof – is one that too many people don't seem to get, in my observation. In a world where the madness of barebacking and substance abuse is decimating the gay urban male population, the lesson of this film is one that every gay man needs to consider, if not embrace wholeheartedly. Good god! A gay drama that dares to address and discuss sexual responsibility in an adult manner! What will they think of next?

First off I have to say that the performances by Scott Speedman and James Marsden's are well done. The movie was the best movie I've seen in a long time. It is intense it's a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat. And the movie is also impossible to predict what will happen. I not giving out the storyline because this is a movie that everyone needs to see. I give this movie 5 Stars ***** bravo well done. And another thing is when you leave the movie theater you will have 1 question on your mind. (The question will be) What would you due if one day your entire life as you knew it comes to a crashing end? Thats all I'm giving out.

The movie will be out on video and DVD on August 31, 2004.

Tony Piccirillo's 'The 24th Day' is a character-driven chamber-piece based on his own play. The film raises the issue of responsibility that comes with sexual relationships. It starts off with two roommates Dan (James Marsden) and Isabella (Sofía Vergara) chatting at a bar. They meet a charming stranger, Tom (Scott Speedman). Dan and Tom decide to hook up that night and once the two enter Tom's apartment things gradually take an unexpected turn where Dan is held hostage and Tom wants answers.

Piccirillo stays focused on these two characters. His writing is brilliant. The characters are well-defined. The dialogues are amusing, thought-provoking, philosophical and there are some interesting references to pop-culture, sports and politics. The twists and layers are superb. He also succeeds in creating a tense atmosphere and keeping the viewer engaged.

The editing is good. At first the flashback sequences are mildly confusing but that parallels well with Dan's confusion. Of course, it all adds up in the end. Efficient use is made of the props and sets as to not distract from the characters.

James Marsden and Scott Speedman are in top form. Chambre pieces require great acting and both actors make fine ingredients. Speedman is restrained while Marsden delivers an authentic performance. Unfortunately, Sofía Vergara is wasted.

This would obviously make a great theatre piece and I'm very curious about the play. I would like to catch a show if it's happening nearby. As for the film, it is well worth the watch.