‘Home’ follows the journey of T, who takes desperate measures to secure shelter for the night while confronting the loneliness and depression that permeate his encounters. The film sheds light on the ongoing issue of LGBTQ+ homelessness, a subject that feels too expansive for the short form, leaving the narrative slightly underdeveloped. However, this narrative brevity also leaves the audience wanting to explore the topic further. The tight aspect ratio enhances the connection we feel to T’s struggle, drawing us into his increasingly twisted search for comfort.
‘DEMONBOY’ begins with a slow burn, carefully establishing a sinister tone as we witness a man’s growing obsession. The film finds its rhythm through striking supernatural moments, where vivid, saturated lighting, creepy music composition, and sharp editing build towards a great twist. The climax delivers a satisfying payoff, cementing the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
‘Stay Still or I Love You’ presents a tender series of vignettes chronicling a young man’s relationship with a petty thief. Federico Luis’s nuanced direction evokes a heartbreaking intimacy, while Marcos Hastrup’s use of close-ups and lingering shots invites the audience to fill in the emotional gaps between moments, allowing the unspoken to resonate. This artfully crafted piece captures the bittersweet essence of love, loss and longing.
‘Blackout’ follows a young man’s efforts to organise a birthday party for his boyfriend but a menacing neighbour unexpectedly weaves into the narrative, introducing a subplot that explores the complexities of abuse and violence. Under Chris Urch’s direction and Brenden Freedman’s cinematography, the sensory experience is heightened, although occasional lapses in focus slightly detract from the film’s visual clarity. Nevertheless, the highlight is the harrowing shot at the story’s climax and a final interaction which is delivered with restrained yet poignant dialogue.
‘Ripples’ begins with an intimate exchange between two men on a boat, where carefully composed visuals highlight the subtle intricacies of their relationship. However, an unexpected twist jolts the story into a broader, more alarming context. Rhys Jones’s script and direction are masterful, balancing nuanced dialogue, simmering tension and great chemistry between the performers.
The series concludes with ‘PINK’, a powerful coming-out story involving an estranged bank robber father. The fact that it is based on a true story adds a layer of intrigue to its authenticity and originality. The subversion of expectations throughout the narrative creates a dynamic and compelling arc and Jim Caesar’s moving performance in the final moments of connection and revelation.
Show Title: Queer and Now
Venue: BFI Southbank
Review Date: 29/03/2025
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