Robin (Vaughn Murrae) a junior teen arrives from Spokane, Washington to the Canadian province of Alberta with his somewhat geeky computer dad, Dan (Matthew Rankin). Robin experiences a flashback now and then about his past particularly his mother. The meaning of the flashbacks might constitute a moviegoer’s delight. Add to this ambiguity is Dan’s aversion to women. Is he playing the other side and for that matter is Robin leaning towards playing the other side or is he already on that side? Why did they leave Spokane to Edmonton? Or were they fleeing?
And the initial enemy of Robin, Carter (Dominic Lippa) turns friend then enemy. Is he also playing the other side? And did he just expose himself to Robin? Is Carter the tough guy in public as a “cover” for his homosexuality. And the Nero is fiddling conclusion represents the symbolic coming out of Robin? Or is the film an exploration of adolescent sexuality without a queer twist? Or is there a bit of everything here other than lots of winks and nudges?
Quite obviously a low budget film with high budget qualities in terms of theme and acting. As for acting the adults are all over the top exaggerated ambiguities perhaps intentionally so to bring a teen vantage into the film. A prime example of well done over the top acting is Shannon Blanchet as Annie the hot to trot realtor. By the way Vaughn Murrae won Best Actor at the Locarno Film Festival. Not a “Breakfast Club” or “Cabaret” but elements of both.
The film recently completed a Canadian theatrical run.
Director Trevor Anderson.
RKS 2024 Film 90/100.
Set the Bar 