High Tide

One could drown in the sea of available titles to watch in the current cinema, yet Marco Calvani's 'High Tide', the story of a heartbroken Brazilian emigre in Provincetown on an expiring tourist visa so distinguishes itself from the other grains of sand on the beach as to reach terra firma. Beautifully shot and subtly acted, this film feels more like the work of a mature director, not a freshman debut. Provincetown, in its cedar-shingled and pea-gravelled splendor deserves a supporting actor credit for shedding her silvery New England light on the mortal proceedings. Bill Irwin and Marisa Tomei lead the pitch perfect cast, while the center of gravity, Marco Pigossi (Lourenco) so honestly inhabits his character as to make the film his documentary. James Bland's Maurice as the too-good-to-be-real love interest provides the plot propellant, but his meltdown for being mistaken as a total top just didn't ring so true. Bland's film presence is anything but, and his character more than redeems his missteps by the time all is said and done. Indulge this reviewer noting Maurice is from my hometown of Richmond. All understood, all forgiven.

'High Tide' is emotionally rewarding in its own right, but takes on additional gravity in the context of our immigration system and the new administration's plans to sink it. High tide indeed.

Heartbreakingly beautiful haunting and realistic depiction of love, loss, rock bottom, desperation, resilience and resurrection

I was so afraid it was going to be a flashy camp boy meets boy blah blah blah

It was the most realistic (and self identifying relatable) of all the phases one can go through in a breakup... and fear of "where am I...what am I know?"

the brilliant and poignant moments hit me hard; harder and more beautifully than expected

Marco (subtle and yet intense), James Bland (vulnerable and self aware) Marisa Tomei (just...!!!) and Bill Irwin (melancholy and sincere) were outstanding. Director Marco let his stars shine and develop and demonstrate REAL human emotion... wisdom... and a common thread of melancholy-tinged hope

He brought out so much from all allowing them disappear into characters. I simply fell in love with, rooted for, cried with, identified with... and wanted them to simply find fulfillment (and forgiveness).

I've not been so immediately moved from frame 1 nor felt each and EVERY actor's emotions in such a long long time

It gave me hope.

This movie is so well done not only for the story line that most foreigners can relate, the gay life's nuances, but also for the photography and scenes cuts.

What seamed to be an ordinary story, was transformed to be a moving sequence of events and little details of life that made it all combined a gorgeous film to watch.

From romance, to drama, to fun, to suspense, the mix of emotions was so captivating to watch and lovely to learn more about the story.

I could not recommend it enough. Me and my friends left the theater crying and wanting for the second one. I hope there is a continuation of the story.

Marco Calvani captures the beauty and pain of a contemporary gay man ( Marco Pigossi) in Provincetown who is at a crossroads in his life. Excellent performances and never heavy handed, High Tide sensitively navigates the main character's journey and takes the audience along for the ride as it unfolds. Wonderful cast all around and great supporting performances from Marisa Tomei and Bill Irwin. The film has such a lush look about it as Ptown is clearly another character here. We get a sense that down this garden path is just one story of so many in this fascinating mysterious coastal town at the end of the world. Inspired and truthful, I thoroughly enjoyed being taken on this ride and very much look forward to where Calvani will go from here.

Don't want to add too many spoilers but it rings true to me- a man from another country who wants to be free to live his life truthfully and find love after a painful break up. But he's bound by family ties and tradition and struggling to fully come out to those he loves back home. Expectation, disappointment and regret. The shame of not being free to be totally open even in our time is fascinating. As much as society has changed - the pain and difficulties of coming out fully to one's self and one's family is still present. I appreciate seeing this captured so effectively as I often have this argument in life when people talk about how being gay isn't an issue anymore and that it's accepted everywhere.

As someone who had their own difficulties coming out years ago, and also as an actor who has played parts of men struggling with sexuality and identity it really resonated with me so I wanted to write a review here.

I hope the film gets the attention it deserves. I'm sure it will have a nice life on demand. Kudos to the filmmakers and casting and the work of Marco Pigossi who navigates the central role with such love and compassion and sensitivity. He and the director have created something really special in his performances.

This is a beautiful and emotional film that truly left an impression on me. Marco Pigossi's performance is outstanding; he brings his character to life in such a real and relatable way. I felt like I instantly connected with him, and his journey felt so personal and genuine.

The film covers so many different themes, from love and loss to personal growth, and it does so in a way that really tugs at your heartstrings. I found myself feeling a wide range of emotions, from happy to heartbroken, but it always felt meaningful.

The cinematography is breathtaking, with every shot feeling carefully crafted to add to the story. The natural scenery is stunning, and the way it's filmed really draws you into the world of the movie. The music also perfectly complements the mood, adding an extra layer of depth to the film.

After finishing it, I found myself thinking about the details I might have missed the first time. It's one of those films that sticks with you, and I'm definitely planning to revisit it to take in all the little touches I didn't notice before.

In short, I loved it. It is a beautiful, emotional, and thought-provoking film. Thank you.