Product: Jeffrey [VHS] (1995)
Rating: 4.0
Highly enjoyable arthouse film with many special moments..
Jeffrey follows a very predictable plot - a 'thirtysomething' gay man is jaded and confused by dating and sex in an era of HIV and emotional distancing. He meets a wonderful guy who is HIV positive and becomes scared and runs away. We then see him work through his issues to eventually become reunited with HIV positive guy. Hhhmmm, certainly sounds like a terrible Hollywood cookie-cutter plot so far.....But what makes this movie special is the low budget nature and the use of 'arthouse' style tricks. Yes, every conceivable trick is employed here - artsy fade outs, character narrative (including direct to camera whilst other actors are frozen), dream sequences and an almost cartoonish quality to the performances. So if you're like me and adore the forementioned arthouse style of film making, this movie is a must see!Whilst the overall plot may indeed be predictable, the journey to the end is filled with many wonderful moments. We have over the top characters providing hilarious comedy which is contrasted nicely to unexpected moments of raw emotion leading to an emotional rollercoaster of a movie.Two actors particularly stand out in this movie. Michael T Weiss (from TV's The Pretender and Days of Our Lives ) excels as the HIV positive gay man who thinks he has found someone special in Jeffrey. He really delves deep into the character to deliver a wonderful three dimensional performance of a gay man who is looking for love. Patrick Stewart (well known for his role in Star Trek) plays a flamboyant, over the top, quick witted older gay man to perfection here. Just when you think his role is completely 1 dimensional, we also see a more human side to him.A special mention must also be made of the numerous cameos made by well know Hollywood actors throughout the movie. Most of their apprearances may be brief, but they all sink their teeth into their respective roles to give us something extra special. Though I won't spoil it for you and tell you who they are....The predictable plot not withstanding, this movie is a very enjoyable journey through the struggles of gay men during an era of HIV and emotional distancing. The 'arthouse' gimmickry employed may not be appreciated by those who are used the standard Hollywood fare, but for those of us who enjoy thought and experimentation in our movies, Jeffrey will leave you with that wonderful 'goosebump' feeling.....