Review - Shelter

Well I just finished watching "Shelter" a really great film about growing up and making decisions for oneself and taking charge of your life path.

                 

Synopsis

Forced to give up his dreams of art school in order to take care of his family, Zach (Trevor Wright) has become accustomed to a life where he neglects his own needs in favor of taking care of his older sister, Jeanne (Tina Holmes) and his nephew, Cody. When his best friend’s older brother, Shaun (Brad Rowe), returns home to cure a case of writer’s block, Shaun and Zach develop a friendship that develops into a true, intimate relationship. Shaun presses Zach to take control of his life, and to take ownership of his artwork. He also develops a strong bond with Cody, and Zach happily notices the positive effect Shaun’s attention has on him. As time progresses, however, a host of new issues come up. Zach struggles with his identity, his family, and friends, while trying to understand the new emotions Shaun has brought into his life. When the cat is let out of the bag, Jeanne threatens to take Cody away. Wanting nothing but the best for him, Zach is forced to decide between his pattern of always putting others’ desires first or fighting for what is really most important and appropriate for both his and Cody’s future.

“With an outstanding script expertly brought to life through stellar performances and striking cinematography, Shelter is a gorgeous, captivating film that is, at its heart, a story about family."

- Kirsten Schaffer, OUTFEST.

Watch the Trailer

I really identified with the main character Zach who is torn between his family and moving ahead with his life. Although I am living away from home I still feel the pressure to conform and deny myself what I truly need in my life. I feel a but sad at this point because I have not done very much of what I really want to do with my life. I live hundreds of miles away across the ocean and I still feel the need to be the perfect son and brother.

I think this film really gives a good, honest examination of a situations that many young people face even if it is set in southern California. But I live in the Caribbean which ought to be some paradise yet it is far from it. The performances of the actors were sincere and not overly dramatic. Also, the love affair between the main characters seemed organic and not forced or contrived or overly sexual as many GLBT films tend to be at times. And not to give away the ending I am most pleased that it did not end in tragedy.

The only downside to this film for me is that despite the fact that it gave me a hopeful vibe it made me feel very isolated and alone all at the same time. I hope I can find someone to love me unconditionally despite my flaws and not just because of sex. 

So all in all I think this was a good film that explores issues ranging from coming out to socioeconomic status and even parenting skills. I give this film 5 out of 5 (5/5) Stars!!!

Watch "Shelter" Now!

LIBs