The Trip

This film can definitely be added in the list of beautiful gay romantic films that I have seen and you should also add to your list if you follow my blog. You know how some films have that extra 'thing' that just draws you in. You don't need to have random sex scenes or anything. It is just emotions that ultimately connect with the audience and they believe in everything that is happening in the film. The film follows the relationship between two men starting from 1973 continuing into the 80's, giving an opportunity for many political and social commentaries having to do with the times.

At a swanky L.A. party, lean and lanky Tommy introduces himself to sexually and politically repressed Alan who is a wannabe writer, belongs to young republican group and his book is on homosexuality. When Alan invites Tommy for dinner, their connection is so intense that Alan's then spooky girlfriend Beverly realizes that there is definitely something much more going on. They keep meeting wherein there is a clear sexual tension between the 2 men but Alan can't admit he is gay. When Tommy decides to not see him anymore because it is painful for him, Alan finally comes out and they start living as a couple. During this time, since his views on homosexuality is changed, he doesn't want his book on homosexuality published but 4 years later it gets published. It is because of Peter, an old man whose house Tommy and Alan first met who always had feelings for Alan. When Tommy finds out the truth about the book and Alan, he feels cheats specially since he had always been outright in his work for causes of gay rights. Alan's book destroys all of it. Circa 1984 where Alan is now living with Peter and Tommy is somewhere in Mexico. When Alan finds out Peter was the one who leaked his name to the media, he leaves to reunite with Tommy. The two finally take the road trip they previously planned, but under tragic circumstances, as Tommy is now ill from an undisclosed illness. In a fitting end to their love story, Alan fulfills his book contract by writing a second book. This time, it is about his coming out process and his love affair with Tommy. The book is called The Trip, and is dedicated to Tommy.

The story features well written, witty, and humorous dialog that moves the plot line believably through the years that the story encompasses. The performances are uniformly good. Alan has this incredible screen presence and very very natural dialogue delivery and laughter. His voice is a mixture of nervousness and confidence which I liked. The chemistry that Tommy and Alan shred in the film is to die for. They are so much in love with each other and they keep making jokes to each other. This is how things should be between a couple. Other characters in the film add to the right mix of comedy and light moments. Even when the film is reaching the climax which could have been a very sobby affair, the director tries to lighten the mood by depicting some of the events that happen on the road trip.

I am glad I saw it again. Fortunately, I didn't remember anything from the first time I saw it. Now thanks to this blog, I will. (8/10)