Given the blurbs and that the film is set in Australia, I wasn't expecting more than the average gay film. But "Sum" is a remarkable film; it puts "gayness" in perspective.
Not only the story of a couple of wonderful guys looking for love, Sum is a big slice of everyday life up there on the screen. Low-key it might be, but the film's endearing characters and big mistakes (of the sort we all make) keep it right up close.
Far from the relationship portrayed by Hanks and Gleason in "Nothing in Common", Harry and Jeff have a wonderful relationship. Almost too wonderful it seems, halfway through the film; but then "Sum" does something remarkable that carries it far above the surface.
It's too easy to take life for granted. And sometimes it's hard to see past the surface. "Sum" is wise about what matters, without having to paint anyone as a saint or demon. Not many films manage such loving and admirable economy.
Not only the story of a couple of wonderful guys looking for love, Sum is a big slice of everyday life up there on the screen. Low-key it might be, but the film's endearing characters and big mistakes (of the sort we all make) keep it right up close.
Far from the relationship portrayed by Hanks and Gleason in "Nothing in Common", Harry and Jeff have a wonderful relationship. Almost too wonderful it seems, halfway through the film; but then "Sum" does something remarkable that carries it far above the surface.
It's too easy to take life for granted. And sometimes it's hard to see past the surface. "Sum" is wise about what matters, without having to paint anyone as a saint or demon. Not many films manage such loving and admirable economy.