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Do not be expecting the average gay misfortune features that so many homosexuality based films revolve around (i.e.: Brokeback Mountain, My Own Private Idaho) when you get ready to watch this masterpiece. I'm not saying those are bad films, they are superb, but Shelter is a really touching, sincere journey through these interesting characters lives that had it's profound, charming aspects with a beautiful message and it didn't have to use extreme tragedy as a gimmick to amuse the audience. It just mixes in dealing with homosexuality along with all the other problems life brings along the way in a brilliant manner that is very enjoyable; I was so entertained with the story.
The main two characters, Zach and Shaun, have amazing, incredible, believable chemistry that was portrayed excellently by the actors to where you feel like this scene is going on right in front of you. I felt for Zach; his character was so true natured and likable and you wish for anything that everything works out well for him and Shaun in the end. It shows how a perfect relationship plays out; they each care for the other's feelings and life. Zach sees Shaun as a positive role model for Cody, and Shaun also has been one of the most affectionate and caring people in Zach's life. Shaun thinks Zach is talented, misunderstood and needs someone there for him through all his hardships. They both make each other laugh, take care of Cody, and while they have their minor difficulties along the way, they understand each other's problems and desire one another not just for their looks, but the personality and warmness they bring to each other. Purely delightful.
The low budget wasn't even a problem, because you're so mesmerized in the adventure that you pay no attention whatsoever to any problems it has because of the budget, if I even remember it having any flaws at all. The performances were amazing from the entire cast, as I have said, and they could not have gotten any better actors and actresses for these characters. I've stated my opinion on Zach and Shaun, but Jeanne was a believable, stress-filled sister who wishes her life could fit in with her family, and Gabe was the best friend most gay guys wish they had; someone who just saw their homosexuality as no thing, and liked them as a friend for the qualities they share and fun they have. The directing, writing and screenplay were straightforward, but like I said, ingenious.
I have to quote another user in their review: "The beautiful thing about Shelter is that it doesn't rely on inane gay stereo-types (i.e.: flamboyant characters, drag queens, limp-wristed high-pitched voiced effete men, gratuitous sex bordering on pornography, etc.) or heavy-handed subject matter (drug addiction, HIV/AIDS). Shelter handles the hurtle of coming-out with such warmth, humor, and touching grace. And the sub-theme of two gay men becoming aptly-able father figures to a young child sends a remarkable message that perhaps not all heterosexuals may be capable of raising a child as effectively as two responsible gay men with strong family values in their hearts." Shelter is just that, perfectly said. It manages all the material so well and creates this serene, lovely atmosphere that we are comfortable with.
All I have said is of course in my opinion, but here again, look at all the other positivity it has received, so I feel as if most people got how wonderful Shelter was, and it deserves any praise it gets. Don't just judge it as a "gay" film; it's one of the best movies I've ever seen in general. I wish more people would see it and appreciate it. I know I am so glad that I had the honor of viewing it.
score 10/10
Dragoneyed363 25 June 2010
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw2269262/ |
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25-3-2021 00:07:08