by Douglas Messerli
Brian Andrew Hosse (screenwriter and director) Just
Boys / 2018 [10 minutes]
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The two boys have arranged to meet in the
park after school. But it clear before the two even meet up by Isaac is already
somewhat more than attracted to his German friend, since he has already drawn a
lovely portrait of Adam.
Adam
finally shows up, pot and beer in hand, as the two boys share the drugs, Isaac
somewhat reluctantly, rough house together in the manner of young boys
everywhere, and finally to a love song, Joe Vilardi’s “Show You How to Love,”
dance together. Adam seems to be more than a little flirtatious, and it clear he
is aware of the homoerotic elements of his actions since when three friends
pass by, he pulls away immediately, Isaac quickly suggesting that he knows the
passerby and he’s embarrassed to be seen.
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But now
Adam seriously pulls away, utterly troubled by what has just happened, and
finally, turning to Isaac, says “You said you were not gay,” before he walks
away probably out of Isaac’s life except for the schoolroom looks of disdain or
even taunting that may follow.
Isaac, placidly pulls out the drawing and adds
in a small growth on Adam’s face, something he obviously had noticed before
today, a birthmark which may make his slightly attractive, or perhaps in the
boy’s mind even more good-looking in his idealized portrait.
Young
gay men often suffer these misgivings, mistaking the homoerotic behavior of straight
boys for an offer of possible acceptance and love.
The
acting here is quite excellent and totally convincing.
Los Angeles, December 8, 2024
Reprinted from My Queer Cinema blog (December 2024).
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