User reviews

This is the story about the break-up of a long-term relationship. This comes as a surprise to one of them, as he had been completely happy and completely in love. Following this, he becomes very depressed. Ultimately, however, he obtains a life coach (George Takei) and slowly works towards accepting this loss and getting on with his life. And then,...the unexpected occurs.

"Hopeful Romantic" is a non-conventional film in many, many ways. There is no dialog in the short--just singing. And, in many ways the short plays a lot like a story and a music video merged into one. While this is unusual what is really unusual is that the story is also a romance....a gay romance. While this might turn off some viewers, I was shocked how much I loved the film. I'm sure I'm not gay but whether you are or aren't doesn't seem to matter in the least. It is amazing from start to finish for a variety of reasons. The leading man, Matt Zarley, is simply amazing. He has a fantastic voice--one you certainly cannot help but admire. As he sings throughout the entire short and he has a gorgeous voice, the film already has a huge plus going for it. Zarley also, incidentally, wrote the story. Additionally, Benjamin Pollack's direction is impeccable....and the montages, acting and music all work perfectly together...perfectly. Overall, it's a film that can't help but touch you and I found my eyes tearing up again and again through this uplifting and very romantic film. A truly wonderful short film.