User reviews

"Ronny & i" is a deeply moving and masterfully erotic story of two twenty-something life-long male best friends coming to terms with one announcing his love for the other. Writing, acting and editing are way above average for a low-budget short. The tight script and the actors' near perfect naturalistic styles draw you into this deeply intimate and entirely feasible portrayal of how the two of them navigate this challenge to their friendship. The editing is brisk where it needs to be but scenes are also allowed to linger so the viewer can absorb what is happening both on the surface and at the deeper levels of these two rich characters.

The film was recorded entirely on a hand-held iPhone 5, but you won't notice or care because the camera, via lots of ECUs, transports the viewer into the middle of the characters' process. We see and hear exactly what these two young guys are experiencing as they absorb this newly revealed dynamic in their relationship. The story will grip you until the final scene, at which point you'll wish it wasn't over.

Do yourself a favor and watch "Ronny & I".

I am now 95 years old, and counting. I have served as a U.S. Navy commissioned officer in four wars, declared and undeclared, and have done so as a career intelligence officer in the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) and as the captain of a U.S. Navy combat ship while in active shooting combat - the single most rewarding privileged time that I have spent in my life. I have accumulated enough academic degrees to gag a goat. And I consider myself to be of the same school of Realpolitik as - god help me - Dr. Henry Kissinger. Which is to say I am old; I am experienced in riding the ups and downs of the vicissitudes of life; I have been riddled in combat sufficiently enough to be declared entirely dead twice; and I am no longer young and foolish, or an untrammeled youthful romantic. So when those bad memories come flooding back as they do from time-to-time, I watch yet again "Ronny & I" (2013) and then I am instantly rejuvenated back to my old resilient self, the same old resilient self that has served me so well in life.

Consequently may I be permitted to recommend to you to spend those few fleeting minutes watching "Ronny & I" as I frequently do and maybe, just maybe you too will emerge feeling rejuvenated as I do, time and time again.

Parenthetically, may I also be permitted to encourage anyone who regards "Ronny & I" to be "Unrealistic garbage" to seek out whatever exquisite punishment that they so richly deserve. And then do it again.

"Ronny & I" gets my well-deserved IMDb 8.5, or rounding up, my IMDb 9.

I was surprised how relatable the story was and how quickly it was sucked into it. I am looking forward to the feature film.

I finished watching it not knowing if this was real or acting. I was so captivated by the entire film. Absolutely love and recommend.

first, for its spontaneity. than, for the status of game of truths. two good friends. a trip. images, words, confessions. and a touching proof of feelings. nothing more. its dynamic rhythm, its beautiful way to show a story presented in too many manners, predictable but, in this case (re)freshing, is the motif for who "Ronny" is little more than a short film about a theme who could be defined as old. because, it is a declaration of life. almost a manifesto. and this is one of its great good points.

Probably the best short film I have ever seen, loved every minute of it, felt like I was there.

I was perusing short films and was uncertain to commit to 20 minutes (do I sound like I've got a short attention span?). So pleased I did. Deeply emotional connection with the actors. So authentic. Loved it. Had to watch it again. Recommended it to friends. Just brilliant. Gay coming of age done in a Blair Witch style without the horror

"Ronny & I" is a short film that defies its runtime, delivering an experience so deeply human and emotionally raw that it feels like you've lived it yourself. Told through the intimate lens of a smartphone camera, this 20-minute masterpiece captures the essence of evolving relationships and the courage it takes to navigate uncharted emotional territory.

The storyline is deceptively simple: two lifelong friends embark on a weekend trip, documenting their journey through casual, hand-held footage. But what starts as a carefree adventure takes a poignant turn when one friend makes a heartfelt confession of love. What follows is a tender, nuanced exploration of how such a revelation can reshape a bond, sometimes in ways neither party anticipates.

The performances are nothing short of phenomenal. The actors embody their roles with an authenticity that is rarely seen, letting the audience feel every pause, every hesitation, and every moment of unspoken tension. Their chemistry is palpable, and their vulnerability draws you in, making you forget you're watching a film rather than witnessing real life unfold. The use of a smartphone camera, rather than feeling gimmicky, adds a layer of intimacy that puts you directly in the moment, as though you're a silent companion on their journey.

What sets "Ronny & I" apart is its ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace. The script is tight, allowing each scene to breathe just enough to capture the gravity of the situation without overindulging. The editing masterfully balances moments of levity and introspection, keeping the pace dynamic while giving the story room to resonate.

This is not just a film about love; it's a story about courage-the courage to speak your truth, to face the unknown, and to embrace the possibility of change. It avoids clichés and melodrama, opting instead for an honest portrayal of two men figuring out what their relationship means in real-time. The result is a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

"Ronny & I" is more than a short film-it's an emotional journey that stays with you long after the credits roll. Whether you've experienced a similar moment in your own life or are simply a fan of powerful storytelling, this film is a must-watch. It's a reminder that love, in all its forms, is both complicated and beautiful, and it has the power to endure in ways we might not expect.

If you're looking for a film that captures the essence of human connection with sincerity and depth, "Ronny & I" delivers in spades. It's one of the best short films I've ever seen-thoughtful, evocative, and truly unforgettable.

Highly recommended.

The first couple of times I watched this, I wept like a child. The last seven times I've watched this, I grin like a crazy person AND weep like a child.

The most beautiful, authentic gay short this side of the Atlantic or Pacific.

I feel bad for the one reviewer here who pretends to be above it all, lost in their sad cynicism. I have yet to read anyone here or elsewhere claim that this is the reaction ALL or MOST or even many gay men would get from a straight best friend in this situation. However, it is the reaction this character received from this best friend in this situation.

I see the best friend as mostly straight, but also as a beautiful, loving, kind, laid-back, and hilariously amusing guy.

Screw cynicism and jaded sneering. This little flick is glorious.