Reviews

The endearing qualities of the characters seem very true to the time to me. I grew up in the 50's, and the scenes of his neighborhood were a wonderful backdrop for the times. The family, the friends, and the events that happen are believable and at times most amusing. Shelly Winters is always outstanding and she delivers in her role as the lead character's Mother. The character of Sarah is very beautiful, although by today's standards both of the young characters would not be cast. Not because they lack character, but because they seem like real people, not Hollywood clones.It was a different world as far as social mores and this glimpse into the heart of a young actor dealing with life through humor and love was most enjoyable.

I saw this movie with a girlfriend, because, sadly we both knew neither of our husbands would ever agree to see it. I have had many friends over the years who struggled with accepting who they are and have seen it destroy wonderful human beings. Our culture stigmatizes people in a heartless way with no conscience. Self righteous people insist that sexuality is a choice...but who would choose to be treated the way homosexuals are treated in our society. I had to talk to my son and explain the difference to him because he thought that gay and pedophile were the same thing. Only when we stop judging and hurting others will we have evolved into a truly healthy culture. What two consenting adults do in privacy is really no one else's business. I loved this movie, because it showed the reality of how a person can hate what they are. I expected Ennis to eat a gun at any moment, because he was so tortured. His wife was so hurt, and didn't understand his needs...Everyone in the movie was hurt by our society's refusal to see that this is not a choice, any more than it is my choice to be straight.