Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Shelter

So I recently had a video recommended to me by a couple of friends who are straight.  The title of the movie is called "Shelter".  It was released in 2007.


It's about a boy, Zach who has to put his dream about going to art school to work and help his older sister Jeanne, his ailing father and his five-year-old nephew Cody.  When Zach isn't working, he's hanging with his buddy Gabe.  When Gabe’s older brother Shaun comes back home from Los Angeles for a few weeks, Zach and Shaun develop a close friendship as they go surfing together. Shaun, who is a published writer, encourages Zach to take control of his life and pursue his ambition of going to CalArts, a large state university of the arts. One night after surfing Zach and Shaun share a kiss, however Zach is not prepared to give in to his feelings immediately. Nevertheless, their friendship soon develops into a romance, while at the same time Shaun builds a strong bond with Cody.



When Jeanne learns that Zach has been spending time with Shaun, she warns Zach that Shaun is gay and to keep Cody away from him. Though his sister is reluctant to accept that Zach himself might be gay, both Gabe and Tori are supportive. Zach and Shaun's relationship is then strained by his sense of obligation to support his family versus his relationship with Shaun and his desire to pursue his own dreams. Zach is confused as to what he really wants.

Shaun secretly submits Zach's art school application, and Zach is eventually accepted on full scholarship. When Jeanne's boyfriend Alan gets a job in Portland, requiring her to move and leave Cody behind with Zach, Zach is forced to decide between putting others first and neglecting his own dreams—as he has always done—and fighting for what he truly wants, both for himself and Cody. He finally discovers that affirming his love for Shaun and going forward with his art career ends up providing the best solution to his dilemma. The film ends with a scene of Zach, Shaun, and Cody playing together on the beach as a family.

It's a good movie.  When you get a chance, I recommend it to all.  

No comments:

Post a Comment