Director: Mark Thiedeman
Cast: Deb Lewis, Samuel Pettit, Sean Rose, Roben R. Sullivant, Byron Taylor
Runtime: 73 minutes
Rating: R
Luke and Jonah have known each other since they were kids and their relationship has blossomed into something more than friendship. Despite knowing that Jonah has to leave for college once the summer is over, Luke tries desperately to make sense of his own future while enjoying the last days of summer he has to spend time with his lover. While Luke believes that Jonah must leave and get to experience greater things than what they have lived so far, Jonah wishes that something would prevent him from leaving altogether. Together they wander around their drowsy town in deep contemplation of themselves and each other.
Filled with lengthy shots of scenery and extreme close ups of hands, this film is said to be inspired by the works of Terrence Malik. The truth is Last Summer is not the greatest exponent of this contemplative form of filmmaking, but its feverish shots of the warm great south might appeal to young watchers who are just now discovering the many sides of queer cinema. With two gorgeous male leads, the story that unfolds in the screen is not particularly thrilling or touching, but it makes for an enjoyable experience if one is in the mood for a slow paced portrait of youth and their search for love and purpose.
Rating: 5 / 10
Screening Time: Tuesday May 27, 7:15pm @ TIFF Bell Lightbox Cinema 1
