Hate Crime

I just got back from watching the film. It was Amazing!!! The Story, The Acting, The Directing, The Sound, and Cinematography it was all Perfect. Yes there was that one scene that was so intense that I wished it wasn't there but I think that it was because it was done so well that it was to real for me. I just have to commend everyone associated with this film. Please I know that it is sometimes hard to get a small budget movie a DVD/Video Release but you must, you just have too. Everyone that has ever been in Love with someone to the point you would do anything for them has to see this film. I have been going to the film festival here in Philly for a decade now and have seen about 100 movies in those years and this is Top 5 with out a doubt.

I saw this film as part of a niche festival in Scottsdale, AZ. And I am very grateful. Because had I not been notified by a friend, through word-of-mouth, I would not have known. That is my biggest concern. This film should be 'Out There' for all to see.

The production value is top-notch - as good as you would see in any Hollywood movie - and better than most that you would see on t.v.

The casting choices, and the acting, were perfect for the portrayal of the characters.

The story was well crafted.

And, most importantly, the messages were universal.

I personally believe that all would benefit from this film inasmuch as I believe that all would benefit from watching 'Angels in America'. Yes, the premise is based on intolerance directed against a very likable, same-sex couple, and the subsequent effects that reverberate through the lives of their respective families and friends as a result. But I did not see this as a gay film. The messages are cross-applicable and universal. I would hate to see this film pigeon-holed. Its messages are not delivered as ham-handedly as 'Angels in America'. It is easy to watch, enjoyable and thought-provoking.

I laughed, I cried, and I cheered out loud.

It is a situational drama. And hopefully in the end the audience will ask not only 'was this right' but: 'If placed in such a situation, for whatever reason, what would I do?'

I saw this film at the North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and found it to be very good (even if sometimes somewhat predictable). Within the first 15 minutes or so, I had figured out who committed the crime.

While I found the film to be of good quality, I also found it to be a bit disturbing.

It seemed to want to show real Christianity as a stark contrast to hate-mongering fundamentalism, and for that it should be praised. But while it took great effort to show that there are Christians who aren't filled with hate and intolerance, it seemed to glorify attempts at revenge. I found the incongruency to be quite disturbing.

It'd be a really good conversation starter.

This movie explores the dark side of religion--in this case, how hatred of gays can disrupt and even devastate people's lives. It is a very thought-provoking movie, and provides a perspective on how people become "gay bashers"...even, and especially, those who consider themselves Christians. One scene was exceptionally well developed and produced which explores how the same issue can be so differently viewed when coming from a place of love versus a place of fear.

The actors are all very believable and effective in their roles, but I must give a "hats off" to Pastor Boyd, Trey's mother and the Neighbor Woman...they really give exceptional performances.

The music score really helps build the suspense in a very subtle way, and was supportive of the meaning of the movie throughout. I found myself thinking about the movie, different scenes, parts of the dialog...for DAYS afterward. It really made me examine my values and honestly explore how I would react in the same situation. And that, to me, is what good movie-making is all about.

I just returned from a screening of Hate Crime.

Badger pester and cajole your local art house, film series or festival to book this film. I went in expecting sort of the same tired, cliché driven gay theme film we are so used to seeing, especially from first time writer directors. But not only is it very accomplished as a film, the script is excellent, and ultimately not predictable, though several times during, you will be certain you will know what will happen next--and proved wrong. Most of the actors are new faces, at least for me, and all are good to excellent, primarily the leads.

Not only is the dialog impressive, I enjoyed how this director wasn't afraid of unspoken silences, and holding a moment or scene, letting it play out.