A realistic look at the Gay Dating Pool

richard-dingle

You will probably hear many question or out right condemn this show as another stereotypical spin on gay culture. They think this show demonizes Gay culture as soulless sex crazed children. I resent the accusations that this show isn't a realistic portrait of gay dating culture. In fact, I find it is rather spot on.....

Looking tries to incorporate many of the things single gay men run into on their journey to find happiness. The show touches on youth obsession, std paranoia, the Dom/Sub complex, subtle racism/elitism, infidelity, etc.

Patrick, as a character is surprisingly complex. He is from an upper middle class upbringing but doesn't seem to be living a Sex in the City like lifestyle that happens far to often in these types of dramas. Hes got a normal job as a geekchic video game designer. He is a bit bashful and verbally clumsy but adventurous in the same breath. The fact that he was an unattractive nerd growing up and is now a decent looking adult in good ol SF, he is exploring his "options". I think many can relate. I would say hats off to Jonathan Goff for his performance as the character but I feel like he is honestly just being himself in the role, which works out great.

I love how most of the cast is attractive but not like they shopped out of a model catalog when choosing cast members(ala Grey's Anatomy). They all feel more natural.....even if there is a strange beard fetish emanating from the show. One character sports a pornstach but still able to look good with it. This all adds to the believability of the show for me.

Yes, some of the characters can be a bit promiscuous, but is this wrong? I think not. Its no secret that many gay men enjoy anon encounters. That is not news. I personally find it belittling to think that only the most noble envisioned gay characters should be allowed to grace TV. Gays have flaws, just like any other when it comes to looking for the one or coping with loneliness.

score 9/10

richard-dingle 14 March 2014

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw2979394/