Monday, August 13, 2012

The Weekend

Credit: thecinemasource.com

What is it about two strangers coming together? 

Whether it’s Brokeback Mountain or West Side Story, we are naturally drawn to the notion that two strangers can magically fall in love with one another and live happily ever after. Luckily for realists such as myself, The Weekend isn’t one of those movies.

While at its very core, the movie is essentially about two strangers coming together (Or I should say, cumming together). And even though there were moments of connectivity, tenderness and humour, be forewarned: there is no fairly tale ending. Instead, the viewer is left to ponder the question:

Does “true” love ever knock at your door twice?

Written and directed by Andrew Haigh, The Weekend tells the story of Russell (Tom Cullen) a mild-mannered, gay lifeguard who ends-up falling for Glen (Chris New) a cynical, out and proud gay artist that he picks-up at a bar. But what was supposed to be a simple one-night stand ends-up becoming a weekend-long exploration of passions ignited, secrets revealed and fears uncovered.

Credit: chicagotribune.com.
On the surface, the recipe for this film isn’t unique. In fact, some might argue that it’s pretty standard fare. Add two strangers, a dash of smitten love, and a serving of broken hearts - Voila! A celluloid version of mac & cheese. Despite the clichéd scenes of drug and alcohol use, what makes The Weekend so delectable is its montage. Interweaving moments of intimacy, conflict and discovery with scenes from the hero’s day-to-day life, Andrew Haigh allows the viewer to slowly savour not only the characters’ blossoming relationship, but their emotional blueprints as well.

Credit: http://quinnfordandscout.eu/
Both Tom Cullen and Chris New did a wonderful job playing their respective roles. They were both authentic and real with their choices and beats and were well-casted for this impactful picture. I almost didn’t watch The Weekend but I’m glad that I did. It was a good reminder of the fact that as in life, movies can be like a box of chocolates. 




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